Congestive heart failure is a condition in which your heart is unable to pump enough blood to your body parts. Heart failure cannot be cured, but proactive treatment plans can considerably increase longevity. Diet changes and exercise are important parts of any congestive heart failure treatment plan. Work with your doctor to devise a weight loss plan that makes sense for you.
Identification
Heart failure occurs in people with weakened heart tissue. High blood pressure, narrowed coronary arteries, congenital defects or inflammation can leave heart tissue weak or stiff. A weakened heart cannot effectively pump blood to the entire body. Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling and wheezing, according to MayoClinic.com.
Significance
Weight loss is an important part of treatment for congestive heart failure. Bed rest and inactivity can weaken your body and cause weight gain, exacerbating heart failure symptoms. Losing weight through diet and exercise increases heart efficiency and strengthens cardiac tissue, according to the website Heart Failure. Maintaining a healthy weight decreases your oxygen needs and decreases the strain on your weakened heart.
Features
Carefully monitor your diet to promote weight loss and improve cardiovascular functioning. Minimize intake of salt and fat to increase circulation efficiency. The website Heart Failure suggests drinking water to stay hydrated but avoiding excessive fluid intake that could strain your heart. Consult a nutritionist to design a diet plan that boosts weight loss while maintaining muscle tissue.
Light or moderate exercise helps your body burn fat and shed excess weight. Begin by walking briskly, gardening or performing other light cardiovascular activity. As you feel stronger, exercise more intensely and for longer periods of time. Physically active people can attempt weightlifting, biking, swimming or jogging to boost activity levels, according to the website Heart Failure. Stop any activity immediately if you feel dizzy, weak, nauseous or have shortness of breath.
Benefits
Losing weight benefits your cardiovascular system and entire body. ClevelandClinic.org reports that heart failure patients who exercise have fewer symptoms, increased energy, lower blood pressure, better muscle tone, stronger bones and lower stress. Maintaining a healthy weight puts less strain on your heart and keeps your circulatory system functioning efficiently.
Considerations
Physical overexertion may exacerbate your heart failure symptoms. Before beginning an exercise routine, talk to your doctor to understand your physical limitations. Ask how much exercise is appropriate for you and what activities you should avoid. ClevelandClinic.org notes that your diet or exercise schedule may interfere with certain medications. Keep your doctor updated about your weight loss progress so that she can tailor the treatment plan to your needs.
