Balbir Singh, Chairman, NIMS University recommends a changed lifestyle for healthy heart

Every year, heart diseases claim thousands of lives. Coronary heart disease accounts for 20% of overall deaths in India. And without any discernible change, the figures are expected to reach a gruesome 34%. Sadly, due the stressed and sedentary lifestyle, hear related problems are fasting taking lives of youngsters as well. Dr. Balbir Singh Tomar, Chancellor, NIMS University, Jaipur, Rajasthan says that heart diseases are always a matter of concern as they kill a huge number of people all across the world.

During his fellowship days in Kings College Hospital, Harvard Medical School and then in India, Dr. Balbir has observed that patients think obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol are the only causes of heart problems. Sadly, this isn’t true. Various other factors including age, family history and even gender raise the risk of a heart disease. The only way to keep the heart fit is by keeping healthy. It is always wise to be proactive.

The way to avoid heart problems is by altering the lifestyle. Including a 30 minute walk everyday helps the heart valves to function better. This is extremely necessary owing to the current sedentary lifestyle. Most of the people spend good 8-9 hours in office sitting through the day. This increases the risk of heart problems by 34%. NIMS Chairman and Chancellor, Dr. Balbir S Tomar elaborates that one must take a short 5 minute break after every 40-45 minutes. This break should involve a little stroll, perhaps across the office to relax the nerves and arteries.

Other than daily basic workout, take good balanced diet. Reduce salt and fat intake and include high fibrous food in the diet. Another important factor for a healthy heart is reducing mental stress and tension. Meditation is a good way to achieve this.