Final answer:
Avoiding stimulants such as nicotine can lead to reduced sympathetic stimulation, which normally increases heart rate and contractility, thus improving cardiac output and decreasing heart workload. Parasympathetic stimulation decreases heart rate and strength of contraction, further contributing to heart health. ß-blockers can similarly reduce heart rate and the heart's workload.
Step-by-step explanation:
Avoiding stimulants such as nicotine can improve cardiac output (CO) and reduce the workload on the heart. Stimulants like nicotine and caffeine increase heart rate and the force of contraction, which increases the heart's workload and oxygen demand.
By avoiding these substances, there is reduced sympathetic nervous system activity, which usually acts to increase heart rate and contractility through the release of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine (NE) and hormones such as adrenaline.
Parasympathetic stimulation, on the other hand, has the opposite effect. It decreases the heart rate and strength of contraction, conserving energy and reducing strain on the heart.
Factors that alter heart rate, such as changes in electrolyte levels and certain medical conditions, can further impact cardiac output and heart workload. By managing these factors and avoiding stimulants, the blood pressure can be stabilized and overall cardiovascular health can be maintained.
Medications known as ß-blockers can be used to counteract the effects of adrenaline and are beneficial for people with high blood pressure or heart conditions because they reduce heart rate and lessen the force of the heart's contractions.
Nevertheless, maintaining optimal electrolyte balance and avoiding stimulants greatly contribute to the maintenance of normal cardiac function and the prevention of potential arrhythmias or heart failure.