In this program, everything revolves around your heart health. Your heart beats tirelessly for you every day. It’s time to give something back because you can promote your heart health yourself. We give you tips and show you how you can do something good for your heart every day.

Session 1 : What does heart health actually mean

In the first session, we will show you what heart health means, which factors influence it, and what the most important cardiovascular diseases are.

Section 1: What does heart health actually mean ?

Your heart beats tirelessly. It is always on duty, around the clock! So, remember to do something good for your heart from time to time and take care of your heart health!
Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most common causes of death worldwide. By promoting your heart health, you can minimize the risk of cardiovascular diseases and increase your life expectancy.

What influences your heart health?

Your lifestyle
Your lifestyle, generally healthy habits such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and avoiding harmful behaviors like smoking, are crucial for maintaining your heart health.

Your blood pressure
Keep your blood pressure in the healthy normal range. When blood pressure becomes too high, it puts pressure on your heart, which can lead to serious complications.

Your cholesterol levels
Cholesterol serves important functions in your body and is essential for your life. Make your heart happy by keeping your cholesterol levels in check. High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of various cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) and heart attack.

Your weight
Overweight and obesity are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight makes your heart a true superstar – light and happy!

Your stress level
Chronic stress can have a negative impact on your heart health. So, take a deep breath, unwind, and give your heart the rest it deserves. Meditation or regular relaxation exercises can help you with that.

Health check-ups
Health check-ups are invaluable. Treat your body to these routine medical examinations to detect and treat potential health issues early.

Section 2: Heart diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death in Europe. They affect the heart and the surrounding vascular system.
We will explain the most important ones to you:

Atherosclerosis
In atherosclerosis, there are deposits of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries. These deposits, also known as plaques, can narrow and harden the arteries, impairing blood circulation and potentially leading to heart attacks and strokes.

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)
Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is when deposits in the coronary arteries impede blood flow, leading to chest pain and heart issues.

Heart failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart can no longer pump efficiently, leading to insufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients to the body, resulting in symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. Heart failure can be caused by various factors, including high blood pressure, heart attacks, or valve disorders.

Heart valve diseases
Heart valve diseases occur when the heart valves do not function properly, affecting blood flow. Symptoms may include shortness of breath and fatigue. Causes can include congenital factors, infections, or degenerative changes.

Cardiac arrhythmias
Heart rhythm disorders are irregularities in the heartbeat. This can lead to a fast or irregular pulse. Causes range from stress to structural heart problems.

Hypertensive heart disease
Hypertensive heart disease arises from prolonged high blood pressure, which puts strain on the heart. This can lead to thickening of the heart walls and other issues.

But don’t worry: With a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups, you can minimize the risk of diseases and improve your quality of life.

Section 3: Happy Heart

There are many factors that can positively impact your heart health. What’s good for your heart:

Exercise is key
Time to get your heart pumping! Regular physical activity strengthens your heart, improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, and helps you maintain a healthy weight.

Healthy diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats provides your body with essential nutrients. At the same time, it regulates your cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight relieves your heart. Overweight can lead to fat deposits in the arteries, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and other heart problems.

No smoking
You probably know that smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Saying goodbye to smoking significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Moderate alcohol consumption
A glass of red wine can be like an elixir celebrating your heart. However, it’s essential to keep track of the amounts and avoid excessive consumption.

Relaxation
Chronic stress can negatively impact your heart health. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or relaxation exercises can help relieve stress on the heart.

Adequate sleep
Good and sufficient sleep is crucial for overall health, including your heart health. During sleep, your body recovers, and a regular sleep cycle can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Regular health check-ups
Regular health check-ups help you detect and treat potential risk factors early.
Note that many of these factors are often interconnected and can mutually influence and reinforce each other.