Risk Factors for Heart Disease

Risk Factors for Heart Disease With over 80 million Americans affected by some form of heart disease, it seems essential for everyone to learn what the risk factors are. Cardiovascular (heart) disease includes numerous afflictions involving the heart and arteries and kills more people in America than cancer. By the time most conditions are caught and diagnosed, it’s almost too late. It’s important to understand what the causes of heart disease are to better prevent their onset. Fortunately, there’s a good chance that if you’re taking care of yourself, eating well and exercising regularly, you have a fighting chance against heart disease. However, there’s always room for improvement, especially when it comes to your health. Let’s take a moment to look at what some of the risk factors are of heart disease and how to prevent yourself from becoming victim to them. Risk Factors for Heart Disease A staggering 1.2 million people have heart attacks each year and 40% of them end up dying as a result. Most factors that put you at risk are preventable and sadly some are just genetic. The risk factors that aren’t preventable are as follows: Gender – Men are more likely to suffer from heart disease than women. Age – The older you are the greater you’re at risk. Post-menopausal women are far more likely to have heart disease that younger women. Family History – If a close relative died of a heart attack, your chances increase. Race – African American, Mexican American and American Indian people are higher risk for heart disease than Caucasian people. Now for the factors you CAN control, aspects of your health that you should be working on to live longer without heart disease. Smoking – Smoking greatly increases your likelihood of getting heart disease. Plus it’s gross and can give you cancer. Cholesterol – If you have high “bad” cholesterol, you’re more at risk. Hypertension – Uncontrolled high blood pressure. Physical Inactivity – Are you exercising enough? Too much sitting around can put you at greater risk. Obesity – If you’re obese you should your weight under control, otherwise you’ll have innumerable health problems that include heart disease. Uncontrolled Diabetes Uncontrolled Stress & Anger All of the above are huge risk factors for heart disease, but can be somewhat prevented. What it comes down to is this: if you’re unhealthy, you’re at risk for heart disease. A good diet and exercise can help you avoid the affliction, but let me break down a little bit more. Eat Better – Not just fewer calories– the quality of what you eat also plays into your health. Cut out processed foods, too much sugar and saturated fat. Eat more veggies, fruits, lean meats and low-fat dairy. If you need structure, consider checking out the DASH diet. Exercise More – This means regularly. Even getting 20 minutes of cardio 3 times a week can make a difference. If you struggle with exercise, consider just making an effort to walk a whole lot more. The less sedentary you are, the better. Get Regular Check-Ups –  Treat your heart like a car– regular tune ups are a good thing, especially after 50. Relax – Try out yoga, swimming or even philosophy to calm down and literally not give yourself a heart attack. Risk Factors for Heart Disease Admittedly, this is easier said than done. However, making small changes in your life can dramatically improve the way you feel today. You’ll have more energy and feel better as a whole if you change your lifestyle habits. Risk Factors for Heart Disease 

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Risk Factors for Heart Disease