4 Habits That Increase Your Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the main causes of death around the world. Every year, approximately one third of all deaths on earth are due to cardiovascular disease. The heart is our most important, and unfortunately most fragile, organ in our bodies, and we should do all we can to protect it. While there are some things that cannot be prevented, such as a family history of heart disease, there are many habits to avoid that will help keep your heart as healthy as possible. Here are some of those bad habits.

Being Sedentary

Sitting on the couch and watching television is not good for your heart. Getting up and moving can do wonders for your overall health and your heart, so you should make exercise a priority. It can be as simple as 15 minutes a day of moderate exercise like slow jogging, swimming, or brisk walking. If that is not possible, then 25 minutes over three days a week will work just as well. There is no reason not to exercise.

Smoking

The dangers of smoking on your lungs have been well documented, but your heart is at risk as well when you smoke. Quitting smoking is an absolute must for those who want to live a healthy lifestyle. You can talk to a doctor about medications that can help with cravings, or try techniques to alleviate stress and other triggers for your smoking. Whatever you do, quit as soon as possible.

Unhealthy Diet

Your diet plays a huge role in how healthy your heart can be. Sugar, bad fats, processed foods, and other unhealthy choices can wreak havoc on your heart. The most heart-friendly foods are nuts and seeds, veggies, fruits, and good fats. There are many diet options out there that incorporate heart healthy choices.

Stress and Anger

Stress can cause inflammation in your body, which puts pressure on the heart. If you are not in control of your stress and your anger, then your heart will suffer. Try meditation and mindfulness techniques to reduce your stress symptoms. If those do not work, then there are cognitive behavioral therapies that might do the trick.

The heart is a vital organ that needs to stay healthy for us to live our best lives. Keep yours healthy by avoiding these bad habits.