Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Treatment: Body

Consider the following lifestyle modifications, which are recommended for people with CHF:

• Exercise regularly: Even though you might find that you are unable to exercise as vigorously as in the past, keeping as physically active as possible is an important goal in managing your CHF. Research suggests that people with stable CHF who participate in high-intensity aerobic training experience improvements in their physical activity level and quality of life. See the exercise article for more information and tips on starting a regular exercise routine. Do not begin any exercise program without consulting your doctor. Depending on the symptoms and severity of your condition, your doctor may have you do an exercise test before starting a program. If you have severe CHF, heavy lifting or extreme exertion is not recommended.
• Lose excess weight: Excess weight can put a strain on the heart muscle, which can eventually lead to CHF. If you are overweight, adopt a sensible eating plan and exercise routine that will enable you to lose weight gradually and maintain your weight at the desired level. One indicator of healthy weight is body mass index. BMI of 25 and above is associated with high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and increased risk of heart disease.
• Discontinue or avoid smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels, reduces the amount of oxygen in your blood, and forces your heart to work harder. Discuss with your doctor the best way to help you quit smoking. See the smoking cessation article for more information and tips. Also remember that secondhand smoke is detrimental to your health. Make sure you are not exposed to cigarette smoke at all.

For more lifestyle modifications recommended to prevent and treat CHF, click here.

Note: Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a serious disease that absolutely requires conventional medical evaluation and supervision. No one should self-treat for CHF. However, natural treatments such as lifestyle modification may complement standard medical care when monitored by an appropriate healthcare professional. Consult with your physician.

• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Exercise
• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Smoking Cessation
• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Yoga

Research suggests that people with stable CHF who participate in high-intensity aerobic training experience improvements in their physical activity level and quality of life.

Read more about Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Exercise.

Because smoking is one of the major lifestyle contributors to the development of congestive heart failure, quitting can be an important part of preventing and treating the disease.

Read more about Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Smoking Cessation.

Regular exercise in general can help the body function properly therefor helping to heart conditions like CHF. More than merely stretching and burning calories, yoga has breathing and meditation...

Read more about Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Yoga.