Fall Tips for a Strong, Healthy Heart After 40 | Dr. Leveno

As we embrace the cozy meals and seasonal celebrations of fall, it’s a good time to focus on heart health—especially for women over 40. Cardiovascular wellness becomes increasingly important as we age, and hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can affect heart function. Taking proactive steps in lifestyle and medical care can support long-term cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

Dr. Joseph Leveno, OB/GYN at Medical City Plano, Texas, provides care that integrates women’s health and heart wellness, helping patients navigate midlife changes and adopt strategies to maintain a strong, healthy heart.

Understanding Midlife Heart Health

Heart health is influenced by a combination of biological, lifestyle, and environmental factors. After 40, women may face increased risk due to changes in hormone levels, metabolism, and overall cardiovascular function. Early awareness and preventive action are essential to reduce the risk of heart disease and promote long-term wellness.

Key factors affecting heart health after 40 include:

• Hormonal Shifts: Reduced estrogen levels can influence blood vessels, cholesterol, and circulation.
• Chronic Health Conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and thyroid disorders can affect heart function if not managed properly.
• Lifestyle Choices: Sedentary behavior, diets high in processed foods, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake can elevate cardiovascular risk.
• Stress and Sleep Patterns: Ongoing stress, anxiety, and disrupted sleep can impact blood pressure and heart function.
• Genetics: Family history may increase susceptibility to heart disease, highlighting the need for early monitoring.

Recognizing these factors allows women to take actionable steps and seek professional guidance when needed.

Integrating Heart Health into Women’s Care

Dr. Leveno’s practice at Medical City Plano emphasizes comprehensive care for women, including heart health as part of routine wellness. Through preventive visits, assessments, and personalized recommendations, patients receive guidance on maintaining cardiovascular wellness during midlife. This approach includes monitoring key indicators like blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as discussing lifestyle adjustments tailored to individual needs.

Women can benefit from strategies that support healthy hormone balance, maintain energy levels, and reduce cardiovascular risk. Nutrition, exercise, and preventive screenings are all components of a holistic approach to long-term heart health.

Practical Lifestyle Habits for a Healthy Heart

Supporting your heart doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference over time. Focusing on nutrition, movement, and daily wellness practices helps keep your cardiovascular system strong.

• Seasonal, Nutrient-Rich Eating: Incorporate fall vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. These help reduce inflammation and support healthy circulation.

• Mindful Holiday Choices: Holiday foods and desserts are part of the season, but balancing them with vegetables and whole foods can prevent overindulgence and maintain steady energy.

• Regular Physical Activity: Aim for daily movement such as walking, yoga, or light strength training. Consistent exercise improves circulation, maintains healthy weight, and boosts energy levels

• Stress Management: Mindfulness, meditation, or simple breathing exercises can lower blood pressure and support overall cardiovascular function.

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is essential for circulation and energy. Herbal teas or infused water make hydration enjoyable and heart-friendly.

Integrating these habits into your daily routine creates a foundation for long-term heart wellness. Small changes, when repeated consistently, add up to meaningful benefits for your cardiovascular health.

Preventive Care for a Strong Heart

Keeping your heart healthy involves more than diet and exercise—regular check-ups are an essential part of maintaining cardiovascular wellness. Routine wellness visits help track blood pressure, hormone health, cholesterol, and blood sugar, giving you a clear picture of your overall heart health and any potential risk factors.

During these visits, your healthcare provider can evaluate your age, lifestyle, family history, and hormonal changes to create a personalized plan for heart health. This may include targeted screenings like cholesterol panels or EKGs, along with practical guidance on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and hydration. By making preventive care a regular habit, you can stay ahead of potential issues and build a strong, sustainable plan for long-term cardiovascular wellness.

Taking Control of Cardiovascular Wellness

Heart health after 40 is about supporting long-term energy, resilience, and overall well-being. Combining daily healthy habits with professional care helps reduce cardiovascular risk and maintain quality of life.

Dr. Leveno’s expertise in women’s health ensures patients receive guidance tailored to their stage of life. From lifestyle recommendations to preventive screenings, he emphasizes proactive steps that contribute to stronger heart health and holistic wellness. Support your heart this season. Schedule a wellness appointment with Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano.