On January 3, 2024. at the premises of the Center for Education and Research Nahla, a lecture on “Proper Nutrition in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases” was held from 18:00 to 19:30 as part of the “Healthy Heart for a Healthy Life” project, in collaboration with the Center for Education and Research Nahla and the Ministry of Health of the Sarajevo Canton.

The lecture aimed primarily to improve health and prevent cardiovascular diseases – the leading cause of death globally. This project was strategically focused on implementing preventive measures for both healthy individuals and those already diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases, with the goal of preventing further disease progression and reducing the incidence of complications.

The lecture not only emphasized the importance of a balanced diet but also detailed how the complex interaction between nutrition, lifestyle, and dietary supplements affects the health of the cardiovascular system.

Structured to provide comprehensive information about the impact of dietary habits on the health of the heart and blood vessels, the lecture highlighted how the choice of food, combined with general lifestyle, can influence the prevention or progression of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, the importance of dietary supplements was discussed, providing guidelines on their use and potential benefits in maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. Through this lecture, participants had the opportunity to learn about key aspects of proper nutrition, understand the importance of regular physical activity, and recognize how everyday life decisions and habits can profoundly impact cardiovascular health.

The project made a significant contribution to education and the promotion of a holistic approach to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, starting from diet and lifestyle, to stress management, the importance of regular medical check-ups, and adherence to therapeutic protocols. Additionally, the lecture was effective in providing practical guidelines and diagnostic instructions, guiding participants towards a better understanding and management of their health in relation to heart diseases.

As part of ongoing efforts to spread awareness and education, a series of expert articles are planned to provide more detailed information about nutrition and its impact on the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. These articles will be a vital resource for further education and raising awareness about the health of the heart and blood vessels, with a specific focus on the prevention of complications in individuals already suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

Through the activities of the “Healthy Heart for a Healthy Life” project, NutriBalans Studio not only achieved a significant impact at the local level but also laid the foundations for further change in the perception and approach to heart health in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as in a broader international context.

Conclusions and Recommendations of the Lecture:

1. Careful meal planning is crucial for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, requiring attention to a balanced intake of nutrients and avoiding excessive consumption of food.
2. Controlling carbohydrate intake is important, especially in terms of choosing complex carbohydrates and limiting refined sugars, which can help maintain a healthy blood sugar level and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. A diet rich in fiber contributes to better digestion and maintaining a healthy body weight, which is extremely important in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Limiting salt intake and increasing potassium intake can have a positive effect on blood pressure, which is key in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.
5. Adequate hydration of the body is essential for maintaining body functions and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
6. Regular physical activity is necessary to maintain a healthy body weight and improve overall health, which is of great importance in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
7. Maintaining a healthy body weight is important as excess weight can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
8. Managing stress is a key factor in maintaining a healthy heart, as stress can have negative effects on the cardiovascular system.
9. Regularly taking prescribed medication is essential for those already suffering from cardiovascular diseases, as proper medication adherence is necessary to achieve disease control and reduce the risk of complications.
10. Adequate supplementation can contribute to better heart health, but it is important to consult with a doctor or nutritionist before starting any dietary supplements.
11. Regular medical check-ups are necessary to timely detect any changes in health status and adjust therapy as needed.