Dr. Rachel Delsarte’

Dr. Rachel Delsarte, a board-certified family medicine physician from Atlanta, brings a holistic approach to addressing one of the most pressing health concerns in the African American community – heart disease. With her unique background in complementary and…
Danuta Gutkowski Ret. · 5 months ago · 3 minutes read


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Protecting Your Heart: A Guide to Heart Health for African Americans

Unmasking Silent Heart Disease: Recognizing the Subtle Signs

Heart disease can be sneaky, often lurking undetected until it strikes. Lingering headaches, persistent fatigue, and a vague chest discomfort (not necessarily sharp pain) might be early warning signals. Keep an eye out for swelling in your legs, consistently high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol. These seemingly minor issues can point to underlying heart problems.

Speaking Up for Your Health: Effective Communication with Your Doctor

Don't be shy about sharing your health concerns with your doctor, even if you've consulted "Dr. Google." Your physician appreciates informed patients. Be honest about your symptoms, even if they're intermittent. Remember, your doctor is your ally. Don't hesitate to ask questions – no question is too small when it comes to your health.

"As physicians, we want to hear everything. Even if you're not experiencing a symptom at the moment, tell us if you felt it last week. That self-awareness is crucial for us to provide the best care."

Lifestyle Changes: Powerful Tools for Heart Health

Exercise is a cornerstone of heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly – that's just 30 minutes a day of getting your heart pumping and breaking a sweat! Prioritize weight management, limit processed foods, and avoid smoking. Embrace a diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Essential Health Screenings: Prioritizing Preventive Care

Regular check-ups are vital. Prioritize blood pressure, cholesterol, and A1C (diabetes risk assessment) screenings. Discuss with your doctor whether a calcium score, a measure of heart disease risk, is appropriate for you.

Taming the Stress Monster: Managing Stress for a Healthier Heart

Stress takes a toll on the heart, contributing to high blood pressure, chest pain, and palpitations. Manage stress through exercise, therapy, meditation, and journaling. Talking to a licensed professional can help address underlying stressors and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Cultural Cuisine and Heart Health: Balancing Flavor and Wellness

Enjoying traditional food doesn't have to mean compromising your heart health. Focus on smart substitutions. Boost flavor with herbs and spices instead of relying on excessive salt and butter. Be mindful of portion sizes and cooking methods, especially when it comes to oils and starches.

A Healthier Food Landscape: Embracing Positive Changes

The increasing focus on healthy eating is a welcome trend. The push for healthier ingredients, such as removing harmful dyes from food, benefits everyone. Let's continue to advocate for transparency and healthier options in our food system.

Promising Developments: Exploring New Avenues for Heart Health

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, lean meats, chia seeds, and flax seeds, show promise in supporting heart health. However, there's no magic bullet. Lifestyle modifications remain the most effective way to reduce heart disease risk. Focus on getting essential nutrients from food first, rather than relying solely on supplements.

Connect and Learn: Engaging with a Health Expert

For more health tips and advice, follow Rachel Delsarte on Instagram (@rachel.delsarte) and visit her preventive wellness website, newvitals.com, for a wealth of information on preventing chronic diseases.

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