How does cardiac rehabilitation primarily benefit patients after a heart attack?

Cardiac rehabilitation primarily benefits patients after a heart attack by enhancing physical fitness and reducing future risk for cardiovascular events. This structured program typically includes supervised exercise training, education about heart-healthy living, and counseling to help patients adopt lifestyle changes.

Improving physical fitness is crucial as it helps restore cardiovascular endurance and strength, positively influencing the heart's function and improving overall health. Additionally, rehabilitation programs focus on risk factor management, which encompasses addressing factors such as smoking cessation, stress management, dietary improvements, and blood pressure and cholesterol management. By focusing on these aspects, patients can significantly lower their chances of experiencing further cardiac events, thus improving their overall prognosis after a heart attack.

In contrast to the other options, cardiac rehabilitation is a comprehensive approach that goes beyond just dietary habits or weight loss. It actively promotes physical activity rather than advocating for total bed rest, which can lead to physical deconditioning.