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Dr. Henry Onwualu, a cardiologist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, highlighted ten key factors that contribute to unhealthy heart function, stressing the importance of preventive measures and lifestyle modifications to protect heart health.
During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Benin, Onwualu emphasized the following factors:
- Weight: Both underweight and overweight conditions can strain the heart, with Body Mass Index (BMI) used to gauge heart risk. Abdominal obesity, especially a waist circumference above 88 cm for women and 102 cm for men, also heightens the risk.
- High Blood Pressure: It forces the heart to work harder, leading to strain. Onwualu advised reducing salt intake to manage blood pressure.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the heart. He recommended minimizing unrefined sugars and avoiding junk food to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol can block heart valves, stressing the heart. A diet high in unsaturated fats and low in saturated fats is key to managing cholesterol.
- Aging: Although inevitable, aging naturally causes a decline in heart function, which may lead to health issues if heart performance drops below normal rates.
Additionally, Dr. Onwualu warned against three lifestyle habits—excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and lack of exercise—which significantly contribute to unhealthy heart function. Maintaining regular physical activity, reducing alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking are essential for optimal heart health.