Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in America. As a result, our Beverly Hills colonoscopy doctor is consistently placing an emphasis on diet and exercise to improve heart health and reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease. A healthier heart helps lead to a healthier colon.
While recent statistics show that over 50 percent of Americans agree that a healthy diet is important, a large portion of these same people doesn’t know what foods are considered healthy. Many have chosen a low-fat diet as a way to combat the rising risks of heart disease. However, medical experts agree that the Mediterranean diet is infinitely more beneficial to the heart overall.
Focus on lean proteins and whole grains
The basics of the Mediterranean diet focus on eating generous portions of lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Flavoring your foods with olive oil also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease. A glass of red wine every now and then would not hurt either. Following this diet not only provides a healthier heart, but it also has been proven to reduce the risk of cancer, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Lower sodium intake
Surveys have shown that most Americans have very little knowledge of the negative effects that too much sodium can cause. According to these surveys, 43 percent of Americans are unaware that most breakfast cereals are extremely high in sodium. 33 percent are also under the mistaken impression that canned vegetables are good for your health. In actuality, these products are also very high in sodium. The American Heart Association recommends a daily diet consisting of less than 1500 milligrams of sodium per day. Our Beverly Hills colonoscopy doctor finds that taking the time to read the labels on the foods that we eat is a great first step to managing our sodium consumption.
About Gi Doctor
Dr. Peyton Berookim is a double board-certified Beverly Hills gastroenterologist who has been treating patients in the Greater Los Angeles area for years. For more information, visit his main website here or follow him on Facebook and Twitter.
