What we eat directly affects our health, especially our heart. Doctors warn that poor dietary choices can increase the risk of heart disease later in life. But making small changes to your diet can help protect your heart and overall health.
For Jasmine Kutch, a visit to the doctor one summer was a wake-up call. “My blood pressure was a little higher, and it was eye-opening,” she said. “I knew I had to make changes to take better care of myself.” Kutch didn’t wait long to act. She set a goal to make healthier choices, not only for herself but also for her family.
“I follow the 80/20 rule,” Kutch explained. “I eat healthy—protein, fruits, and vegetables—80% of the time, and the other 20% I allow myself some treats.”
Doctors say good nutrition is vital for maintaining heart health, and it’s never too early to start healthy habits.
Dr. Rajiv Maraj, an interventional cardiologist at Mercy Medical Center in Merced, highlights the importance of watching your salt intake. “Many diets in this area are high in fatty foods, red meat, and pork, which can be harmful to heart health,” he said.
When we don’t pay attention to our diet, it can damage parts of the heart, like the arteries. Dr. Maraj warns that poor diet choices can lead to circulation problems, where the heart’s demand for blood and oxygen exceeds the supply, potentially resulting in serious health issues.
Making healthier changes doesn’t require drastic steps. Doctors recommend starting with simple actions, such as making a shopping list to avoid buying unhealthy foods.
For Kutch, staying consistent and being patient is key. “It’s all about making small, manageable changes and sticking to them,” she said.
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