Chad M. Alford, M.D.

Helping people to have healthy hearts and longer lives is my mission here at Mobile Heart Specialists, PC.

Chad M. Alford, M.D.

Born:
Mobile, Alabama

Education:
B. S. Biology, University of South Alabama

Medical School:
University of South Alabama

Internship/Residency:
Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Fellowship:
Medical University of South Carolina

Certification:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease

American Board of Internal Medicine, Interventional Cardiology

Certified Physician Investigator, Academy of Pharmaceutical Physicians and Investigators

Memberships:
American College of Cardiology, Fellow

Medical Association of the State of Alabama

Medical Society of Mobile County

Adjunct Assistant Professor, Dept. of Medicine at the University of South Alabama

Academy of Pharmaceutical Physicians and Investigators

What follows are some practical points that should help you achieve a healthier lifestyle as I partner with you in your healthcare. 

Minimize sugar, stress, salt, sedentary behavior and stop smoking.

Less time on the couch=more time on earth.  Walking will do it.  At least 30 min. of brisk walking daily will improve your health.  More activity= lower blood pressure, lower lipids (bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides), higher good (HDL) cholesterol and a better body and brain.  Cardiovascular health will be improved, your bones and muscles will be stronger and your mind will work better.

Yes, the surgeon general is right.  Smoking is bad, really bad, for your heart health.  No nicotine= decreased risk of dying from heart disease, stroke or cancer.  If you are having trouble quitting ask your doctor for help.

A good belly laugh is good for you.  Don’t overdose on bad news.  Watch a funny sitcom instead or spend time with a friend who makes you laugh.  Keep close relationships with family and friends for support and focus on your faith.  Prayer, meditation and quiet time for reflection will help.

That will help get you moving and a little sunlight daily is good for your mood (and your Vitamin D level!)

Remember, your doctor’s goal is to keep you alive so the medications and treatments are recommended for that reason.

Realizing where you are regarding your blood pressure, lipid levels, blood sugar and weight will help you set goals to get to healthier levels in these crucial areas.

A BMI (Body Mass Index) > 28 is too high and > 30 is much too high.  The “secret” to losing weight is consuming fewer calories than your body uses daily.  Decrease portion sizes, chose healthy food, skip desserts often, cut out soft drinks, limit alcohol and get active.  We have too much sugar in our diets!  Losing the extra weight might not be easy but you will feel better and be healthier as you work at it.  Don’t get discouraged.  Start with realistic attainable goals and then keep building on your success.

Limiting sugar will help, as well as eating healthy fats such as tuna, salmon, avocados, walnuts, almonds, pistachios and flaxseed (to name a few).  But with nuts watch the salt.  Berries have great nutritional value as well.

Remember, keys to success are movement, mood, food and meds.

The choices we make daily matter, so do your best to make the right ones!

Chad Alford, M.D.