Prioritize cardiovascular health: Embrace a healthy lifestyle before illness jeopardizes your heart.

Heart diseases remain a leading cause of death in the United States, underscoring the importance of maintaining excellent heart health as the primary defense against cardiac problems. While factors like heredity may increase susceptibility to heart illness, lifestyle plays a crucial role.

Holly S Andersen, MD, an attending cardiologist and associate professor of clinical medicine at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Center, emphasizes the significance of lifestyle in heart health, stating, “It’s more important than genetics.”

According to the American Heart Association, 80% of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, are preventable. Here are some essential healthcare tips to ensure a strong and healthy heart.

High blood pressure poses a significant threat to heart health, necessitating consultation with a doctor for appropriate intervention. The doctor may prescribe medication or recommend lifestyle changes. If medication is prescribed, adherence to the prescribed regimen is crucial. Consider obtaining an at-home blood pressure cuff for regular monitoring.

Diet plays a vital role in heart health, with the DASH diet being endorsed by the AHA and MedlinePlus. While the Mediterranean diet gains attention for its emphasis on healthy fats and fresh foods, both are considered beneficial.

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential. A 2017 study published in Medicine (Baltimore) found that underweight individuals, defined as those with a body mass index (BMI) below 18.5 kg/m2, may be more susceptible to cardiovascular disease.

Stress, identified by the American Heart Association as harmful to the heart, can also lead to overeating and inactivity, contributing to elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Managing stress is crucial to reduce the risk of heart disease.