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Have you heard of it? A slow heartbeat may be the secret to longevity!
This exciting discovery has many people tempted to slow down their heart rate with medication. But is it really for everyone?
Let's unravel this mystery together.
The human body is an amazing machine, and the heart is like its engine. A heart rate of 60-100 beats per minute is considered normal. However, recent research shows that the slower the heart rate, the longer the life expectancy. This discovery has made many people start to pay attention to their heart rate, and even want to actively reduce it.
Scientists have found that people with slower heart rates generally have healthier cardiovascular systems. A slow heartbeat can reduce the heart's workload and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
A long-term study of more than 20,000 adults showed that for every 10 beats per minute increase in resting heart rate, all-cause mortality increased by 9%. That's a shocking statistic!
Should everyone take immediate action and use drugs to slow down the heart rate?
The answer is no. Heart rate is an individualized indicator that is influenced by a variety of factors, such as age, gender, body type, lifestyle, etc. For some people, a slower heart rate may mean better health; For others, it can be a sign of an underlying disease.
Athletes and people who exercise regularly tend to have a lower resting heart rate, which is a sign of a strong heart function. Conversely, for people with weakened heart function, a heart rate that is too low may lead to dizziness, fatigue, and even fainting. Blindly pursuing a low heart rate is extremely dangerous.
Who is suitable for medication to slow down the heart rate?
Usually, this type of drug is mainly used to treat certain heart diseases, such as arrhythmias, angina, etc. β blockers are commonly used drugs to lower the heart rate, which can slow the heartbeat and lower blood pressure. However, not everyone can use this type of drug, and people with asthma, diabetes and other diseases should use it with caution.
For healthy people, the safest and most effective way to lower heart rate is through lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise is preferred, as it not only lowers resting heart rate but also strengthens heart and lung fitness. At least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, etc., can see noticeable results.
Maintaining a healthy diet is also crucial. A diet high in fiber and low in fat can help maintain cardiovascular health. Eating more fruits and vegetables and less processed foods and saturated fats can help control weight and reduce the burden on the heart.
Stress management should not be neglected either. Long-term stress can lead to an elevated heart rate, increasing the risk of heart disease. Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing to relieve stress and stabilize your heart rate.
Getting enough sleep is also important for heart health. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to an increased heart rate and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night to give your heart a rest.
While a slower heart rate is often associated with better health, a heart rate that is too low can also be a sign of a problem. If the resting heart rate is persistently below 60 beats per minute and accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms, you should seek medical attention.
For the elderly, the situation is more complicated. As we age, heart function naturally declines, and a heart rate that is too low can lead to a range of problems. Older people should manage their heart rate under the guidance of a doctor.
Some studies have found that heart rate variability (how much the heartbeat interval varies) may be more indicative of heart health than average heart rate. High heart rate variability often means better resilience and a healthier autonomic nervous system.
How can I monitor my heart rate?
The easiest way to do this is to press your fingers on the pulse in your neck or wrist, count the number of heartbeats in 15 seconds, and multiply by 4. Now, many smartwatches and health apps also come in handy to monitor heart rate. However, the accuracy of these devices may be limited, and professional medical advice should be sought if abnormalities are found.
While a slower heart rate may be associated with longevity, it doesn't mean that everyone should pursue an extremely low heart rate. A healthy heart rate is individualized and influenced by a variety of factors. For most people, lowering the heart rate naturally through a healthy lifestyle is safer and more effective than using medications.
Remember, heart health is more than just a number. A well-rounded and healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and effective stress management, is the true path to longevity. If you have any concerns about your heart rate, your best bet is to consult a medical professional for personalized advice.
Let's cherish every heartbeat and pursue the slow heart rate that may lead to longevity in a healthy way. The quality of life is far more important than mere length. Staying positive and enjoying every moment of life may be the true secret to longevity.
The above content is for reference only, if you feel unwell, please consult a medical professional. If you like it, you can pay attention to it, share health knowledge every day, and be your exclusive online doctor.