In the News Heart Health Month – Part II

(Continued from Part I…)

• Advanced age - Your risk of developing and dying from a heart-related illness increases as you age, with most deaths occurring in the over 65 age group, so staying as healthy as possible through exercise and diet is the best way forward.
• Gender – Men are more at risk of having a heart attack than women, and having one earlier, too.
• Heredity risk - You have a higher chance of developing heart disease if other family members have it. You may want to get your DNA tested for any hereditary risk, then (of course) discuss the results with your doctor.
• Smoking – Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop heart disease. It’s time to kick the habit!
• Low physical activity - Leading a sedentary lifestyle is one of the major risk factors for developing coronary heart disease, but you don’t have to be an elite athlete to increase your activity levels as extra protection.
• Being overweight - Overweight people are more likely to develop heart disease. Excess body fat around the stomach and abdomen areas is particularly dangerous and can also lead to high blood pressure.
• Stress - Your physiological response to stress could be a leading risk factor for having a heart attack. Look for healthy ways to deal with the stress of your everyday commitments, such as mindfulness and meditation.
• Poor diet - What you eat affects your health. Eating nutrient-rich foods (such as fruits and vegetables) and limiting your red meat and sugar consumption is a good place to start.