Walking reduces heart failure risk in older women

Walking is a simple and effective form of exercise that can help older women reduce their risk of heart failure. Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and edema. Older women are particularly susceptible to heart failure due to changes in hormone levels and decreased blood vessel function. Studies have shown that moderate walking can reduce the risk of heart failure and have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. We will explore the effects of walking on heart failure in older women and its benefits.

1. Walking can strengthen the heart muscle

When we walk, our hearts need more blood and oxygen to meet the demands of the exercise. This moderate exercise can exercise the heart muscles, making them stronger and more efficient in pumping blood. This strong heart can reduce the risk of heart failure because it can better cope with various stresses and burdens. In addition, it also helps to dilate the heart blood vessels, increase the blood supply to the heart muscles, and improve the heart's health index.

2. Walking helps control weight and reduce stress

Maintaining a proper weight is essential for cardiovascular health. Being overweight will increase the burden on the heart and lead to the onset of heart failure. Walking is a low-intensity aerobic exercise. Taking a moderate amount of walk every day can help older women burn excess calories, thereby reducing weight and reducing the risk of heart failure. In addition, walking can also help release tension and stress, relax the mood, and reduce the adverse effects of psychological stress on the heart. Again, walking helps control weight.

3. Walking helps lower high blood pressure and improve blood circulation

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart failure, which can damage the heart and blood vessels. Moderate walking can lower blood pressure levels and reduce the burden on the heart. In addition, walking can improve blood circulation. Elderly women often have problems such as cold hands and feet and leg edema due to poor blood circulation. Walking can promote blood circulation through exercise, increase the oxygen and nutrient supply of the blood, and reduce the occurrence of edema and other discomfort symptoms.

4. Walking also has a positive impact on mental health

Elderly people often face problems of loneliness and depression, and walking can be a way to self-regulate and relax. Walking can bring fresh air, sunshine and natural scenery, which can make people feel happy and relieve negative emotions. A happy mood is important for heart health and can also help reduce the risk of heart failure.

In summary, walking is an effective way to reduce the risk of heart failure in older women. Moderate exercise can strengthen heart muscles, control weight, lower blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health. In addition, walking also has a positive effect on mental health. Therefore, older women can maintain cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart failure by taking a walk every day. At the same time, they are also advised to pay attention to moderate exercise intensity, avoid overwork, and consult a doctor's advice if necessary.