A widely recognized TV physician, Dr. Hilary Jones, has revealed his advice for maintaining optimal heart health, along with a strong caution about a common habit that can significantly increase the risk of heart attacks.
Dr. Jones, a beloved UK GP who frequently appears on popular British morning programs such as Good Morning Britain, shared his crucial ‘heart health hacks’ on Healthspan’s Instagram account.
Employing a life-sized heart model to emphasize his message, the 71-year-old explained in the video: “Take a look at this, this is exactly what your heart looks like.”
“I think you’ll agree, considering what it does for you, that it’s worth looking after.”
According to Dr. Jones, preserving the health of our hearts involves shedding extra weight and eliminating a specific detrimental habit.
He continued: “Don’t strain it [your heart] by carrying too much weight, exercise it regularly – it’s a muscle – it loves a bit of exercise.”
He also advised against accumulating too much cholesterol in the heart.
Moreover, the doctor issued a grave warning against smoking, stating: “Don’t smoke, your heart hates that.”
According to NHS guidelines, smokers face heightened risks of heart and cardiovascular illnesses, including strokes and heart attacks, with smokers being more than twice as likely to experience a heart attack compared to non-smokers.
Quitting smoking leads to improved physical health and a reduction in the likelihood of diseases related to smoking, such as cancer, lung disease, heart issues, and strokes, along with potential mental health benefits.
The NHS offers a list of the top products and a variety of support services for those determined to stop smoking.
Dr. Jones has created several concise guides, featured in a series of videos on Healthspan’s Instagram, encompassing subjects like stress management and monitoring blood pressure.
In one of these videos, he emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing ‘relaxation’ for heart health by taking regular breaks away from everyday stress.
Dr. Hilary mentioned: “Life can be pretty stressful, can’t it.”
“Constant, relentless, exhausting – but too much stress is bad for our heart.”
He urged viewers to ‘do what I do’ by setting aside some personal time in their schedule to relax.
The doctor concluded by saying: “Your heart will love you for it.”
In another segment, he highlighted that ‘millions’ of individuals currently have high blood pressure without being aware of it.
Demonstrating a blood pressure monitor on himself, he continued: “They’re at risk of something they really don’t want, like stroke or heart attack, so get yours checked out soon.”
Indicating the monitor on his arm, he suggested: “See your GP or your pharmacist or get a do it yourself device like this.”