Do you know which condition is the leading cause of death among Americans? Heart disease kills about 659,000 Americans each year.
This is one of many conditions that can affect the heart. If you worry about your heart or are at risk for heart issues, you must keep your heart healthy.
There are several lifestyle changes you can make to have a healthy heart. Read on to learn five heart care tips you should be using to keep your heart in top shape.
1. You’re What You Eat
One of the best things you can do to care for your heart is to eat right. Chances are you love fries and thick steak. Did you know these foods contain a bad type of fat?
Yes, trans fat is the type of fat you need to avoid. It can increase your risk of developing heart disease. It can even lead to a stroke.
You need to focus on eating foods with unsaturated fats. Polyunsaturated fats are good too. These good fats can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Be Active
One of the ways to keep your heart healthy is by being active. Physical activity promotes heart health.
If you’re living a sedentary lifestyle, you’re harming your heart. It’s best to exercise. Go for a walk or run.
How much exercise should you get per week? Experts recommend adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Those who want to push themselves a bit more can do 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
3. Don’t Smoke
Keeping your heart healthy means no smoking. It’s bad for your heart health, as it can increase your risk of developing coronary heart disease. Smoking can also lead to heart attacks.
Avoid getting near people who smoke. Secondhand smoke can also affect your heart.
4. Take Care of Your Teeth
Taking care of your teeth can help keep your heart going strong. People who have gum disease often have the same risk factors for heart disease.
The bacteria that causes this oral disease can elevate C-reactive protein. This protein is a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels.
To keep your teeth and heart healthy, brush at least twice a day. Floss after every meal too.
5. Get Enough Sleep
Are you experiencing increased fatigue? If you aren’t getting enough sleep, this can be a problem. It’s also not good for your heart.
Caring for your heart means getting adequate sleep. It can help lower your risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Follow These Five Heart Care Tips
Keeping your heart healthy is a must. These are five important heart care tips to follow. Now that you know how to care for your heart, it’s time to make the necessary changes in your life.
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