Which heart beat measurement is most indicative of your general health?
i think it is your resting heart beat, but im not sure the reason
You're on the right track! Resting heart rate is indeed a good indicator of your general health. Here's why:
Resting heart rate refers to the number of times your heart beats per minute while you are at rest, specifically when you're not doing any physical activity. A lower resting heart rate is generally associated with better cardiovascular fitness and overall health.
One reason why resting heart rate is a valuable measure of health is that it reflects the efficiency of your heart. When you're physically fit, your heart becomes stronger and more efficient at pumping blood, which means it doesn't have to work as hard or beat as frequently to meet the body's needs. As a result, your resting heart rate tends to be lower.
Regular exercise, particularly aerobic activities like running or cycling, can lower your resting heart rate over time. This is because exercise strengthens your heart, improves its efficiency, and lowers your overall cardiovascular risk.
On the other hand, a higher resting heart rate can be an indicator of poor cardiovascular health or underlying medical conditions. It may suggest that your heart is working harder to meet the body's needs, potentially due to factors such as stress, dehydration, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions like hypertension or heart disease.
It's important to note that individual variations exist, and other factors like age, gender, and fitness level can influence what is considered a "normal" resting heart rate. However, a general guideline is that a resting heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute is considered average, while lower values typically indicate better cardiovascular fitness.
To measure your resting heart rate, find a quiet and relaxed environment. Place your index and middle fingers on your wrist (on the thumb side) or the side of your neck, just below the jawline. Count the number of heartbeats you feel for 60 seconds, or count for 15 seconds and multiply the result by 4 to get the beats per minute.
Remember, if you have concerns about your heart rate or overall health, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.