Heart rate

Definition

Heart rate is the number of times the heart beats per minute. It is a vital sign used to measure cardiovascular health and overall fitness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute.
2. Heart rate can be affected by factors such as age, fitness level, medication, and nutritional status.
3. A consistently high or low heart rate may indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention.
4. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron and vitamins B12 and D, can influence heart rate variability.
5. Hydration status also impacts heart rate; dehydration can lead to an elevated heart rate as the body works harder to maintain blood circulation.

Review Questions

• What is considered a normal resting heart rate range for adults?
• How can nutritional deficiencies affect heart rate?
• Why might dehydration cause an elevated heart rate?

Related terms

Tachycardia: An abnormally high heart rate, typically over 100 beats per minute in adults.

Bradycardia: An abnormally low heart rate, typically under 60 beats per minute in adults.

Cardiovascular Fitness: A measure of the efficiency with which the cardiovascular system delivers oxygen to the body during sustained physical activity.