Your heart is the engine of your body. Keeping your heart healthy is one of the most important things you can do for your overall well-being. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. It is responsible for 1 in every 5 deaths according to the CDC. Fortunately, preventive care and early intervention can dramatically reduce your risk.
At Bethany Medical Clinic, we take heart health seriously. Whether you’re managing an existing condition like hypertension or simply want to take proactive steps toward prevention, our primary care team is here to support you at every stage.
The Role of Primary Care in Heart Health
Your primary care provider (PCP) is your first line of defense against heart disease. Through regular check-ups, screenings, and lab tests, your PCP can:
- Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Track changes in weight and BMI
- Identify early signs of cardiovascular risk
- Create a tailored prevention or treatment plan
Your PCP helps you connect the dots between everyday symptoms (i.e. fatigue or shortness of breath) and possible heart concerns. We also coordinate with specialists, like cardiologists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals, to ensure comprehensive care.
Move More, Eat Smart: Heart Health Through Diet & Exercise
A heart-healthy lifestyle is one of the most powerful tools you have to protect your cardiovascular system. It starts with what you eat and how you move.
Heart-Healthy Diet Tips:
- Focus on whole, unprocessed foods: fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains
- Choose lean proteins like fish, skinless poultry, and plant-based proteins
- Limit saturated and trans fats, often found in fried foods and packaged snacks
- Reduce sodium intake to manage blood pressure
- Incorporate healthy fats such as omega-3s from salmon, flaxseed, or walnuts
A registered dietitian at BMC can help you create a personalized plan that aligns with your goals, medical history, and lifestyle.
Exercise for Cardiovascular Health:
Regular physical activity improves circulation, strengthens your heart muscle, and supports healthy weight. We recommend:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (i.e.,, brisk walking, cycling)
- Muscle-strengthening exercises 2x per week
- Simple movement throughout the day, especially if you have a sedentary job
Your PCP can help determine the best type of exercise for your fitness level and any chronic conditions.
Why Preventive Screenings Matter
Many risk factors for heart disease are “silent.” You may not feel any symptoms until the condition becomes serious. That’s why annual physicals and routine lab work are essential. Key markers we track include:
- Blood pressure
- LDL and HDL cholesterol levels
- Triglycerides
- Hemoglobin A1C (for diabetes risk)
- Electrocardiogram (EKG), if indicated
These tests allow us to intervene early, often preventing more serious issues down the line.
Whole-Person Heart Health
Heart health doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s influenced by every aspect of your life: diet, stress levels, sleep quality, hormone balance, and even your mental health. That’s why Bethany Medical Clinic offers:
- Nutrition counseling
- Therapy and stress management
- Sleep and hormone health support
- Women’s health services
- Dermatology services
We believe in treating the whole person, not just the numbers on your chart.
Start with a Heart-to-Heart
If you haven’t had your heart health evaluated in the past year, now is the time. At Bethany Medical Clinic, we offer in-network, comprehensive care under one roof. From your annual physical to long-term heart disease management, we’re your partners in lifelong wellness.
Early action can save lives. Whether you’re at risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or have a family history of heart disease, our team is ready to help you take control of your health.
Your heart works hard for you, let’s return the favor.