With cardiovascular disease being a leading cause of death in the UK, it’s essential to maintain the normal function of your heart.
So, how can you keep your heart healthy? From eating a balanced diet to improving your lifestyle choices – discover everything you need to know.
Five Ways to Improve Your Heart Health
Maintaining a balanced diet is one of the most well-known ways to support coronary health, but there are a few other methods too, including:
1. Quit Smoking
We’re sure you’re already aware of the many health risks associated with smoking, with one of them being the increased chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke.
However, according to the NHS, your risk of developing smoking-related diseases reduces after quitting. In fact, after 15 years, your chance of having a heart attack will be the same as someone who has never smoked.
Some of the best ways to kick the habit include joining a support group and learning from those who have successfully quit themselves. You can also visit your doctor for advice, as you may be eligible to receive prescribed medication to help you give up smoking.
2. Get Quality Sleep
Getting enough sleep doesn’t only replenish your energy levels, it also plays a pivotal role in supporting a healthy heart. In fact, one study found that sleep deprivation was associated with coronary heart disease.
It’s suggested that an adult should aim for seven or more hours of quality sleep each night. Some studies have even looked into whether the time people go to sleep could have an impact on their heart health. It concluded that those who fell asleep between 10pm and 11pm each night had the lowest risk of developing heart disease. So, if you ever needed an excuse to get an early night – that would be it!
3. Manage Your Stress
It’s no secret that chronic stress could lead to various health issues, such as cardiovascular disease. Introducing physical activities like yoga or walking may be able to increase your body’s feel good endorphins (serotonin), which can in turn work to decrease the production of stress hormones.
For mild or acute stress, techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises have been shown to reduce stress levels, which could lower the chance of developing cardiovascular disease.
4. Lose Weight
If you’re carrying excess body fat, losing weight is a great place to start for a healthier heart.
This is because extra pounds can result in a variety of health concerns, such as high blood pressure, which may increase your risk of heart disease.
If you’re looking to kick-start your weight loss journey, explore our range of OPTIFAST meal replacement products to help to support your goals.
