Know Your Heart Numbers

Your heart is crucial to your overall health – and the first step to maintaining your heart health is knowing your numbers. Bryan White, MD, cardiologist at Adventist HealthCare Cardiac Associates, shares what numbers to look for and what your goal range should be.

BLOOD PRESSURE – 120/80

Blood pressure can be affected by age, medications and overall health. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. 

CHOLESTEROL – <100

Your LDL, or bad cholesterol, may lead to a buildup of plaque which narrows your arteries in your heart and is a leading cause of heart attacks. Keeping your LDL less than 100 mg/dL is a good goal for your heart health. 

Your primary care provider may estimate your risk for heart disease, particularly if you are between the ages of 40 and 75 with an LDL that is above 70 and you have other factors. Some of those risk factors, can include smoking, family history and diabetes.

A1C – <5.7

A1C is a measure of your blood glucose and diabetes, a risk factor for heart disease. To lower your risk of developing diabetes, aim to keep your A1C levels below 5.7%.

BMI – 18.5-25

Your body mass index (BMI) target should be between 18.5 and 25 kg/m2. But always talk with your doctor to determine what your ideal weight, BMI and waist circumference should be.

Always talk with your doctor about your numbers and how you can lower your risk for heart disease. Remember that simple lifestyle modifications can reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke by greater than 50%.