Heart disease is one of the lifestyle conditions that causes high fatalities across the world. Who is at risk? People who have a family history and/or genetic risk for heart disease, or health issues like high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, etc.
The role of your genetics and your lifestyle in the development of heart disease
Your genes encode your life - they can be referred to as the blueprint of life. One’s genetics is determined at the time of their conception. Hence, you can know your genetic risk level for heart disease and other health conditions but cannot alter your genes.
On the other hand, your lifestyle habits act as the tool that you can use to lower or increase your genetic risks. How? Because, your health is a direct product of your lifestyle and genetics, wherein genetics is a constant. Your lifestyle includes your food, exercise, sleep pattern, amount of stress levels, etc. Therefore, following a healthy lifestyle can help you manifolds in reducing your risks for developing heart disease.
How to know your genetic risk for heart disease?
A genetic test can give you a complete picture of your genetic risks towards various health conditions including heart disease, traits related to wellness, and habits. The test kit can be ordered online, and your DNA is extracted from your saliva sample to give you the report with lifestyle modification recommendations and genetic counselling. Based on the risk levels in your report, you can personalize your lifestyle and reduce your disease susceptibility.
Ways to reduce your risk of developing heart disease
Adhering to a personalized lifestyle based on your genetic recommendations can help in lowering your risk of heart disease. Your lifestyle choices influence your risk for heart disease. An overall healthy lifestyle includes:
Not smoking or consuming tobacco
Maintaining a healthy body weight/BMI
Exercising on a regular basis
Consuming a nutritious diet - fresh fruits, vegetables, avoiding processed meat, and reducing sodium in food
Knowing your family history
Understanding your genetic risks and acting on the recommendations suggested by the counsellor
Personalizing your lifestyle and your health checkups according to your genetic test report
Know how to make your genetic test report your lifelong guide for your good health.
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