Wanting to live a healthy, long life is one thing—but figuring out exactly how to do that and making the necessary changes is another story. There are so many factors that play into your health, but one of the most important aspects of wellness to consider as you age is your cardiovascular health. When your heart is healthy, your whole body (and even your brain!) benefits. For this reason, practicing heart-healthy habits is one of the best things you can do to live your longest life.
To discover some of the most impactful changes you can make in order to help your heart thrive, we spoke to David Seitz, MD, Medical Director of Ascendant Detox. He told us that eating a healthy diet, exercising, limiting your alcohol consumption, and managing stress are all essential.
#1. Eat a healthy diet
A healthy diet is essential to every part of your overall wellness, and your heart health is no different. In fact, Dr. Seitz says maintaining a balanced, nourishing diet is one of the best things you can do for your heart. “This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, and limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and sugar,” he explains. “Eating a healthy diet can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, and it can also help you manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.” Noted!
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#2. Get regular exercise
Another extremely important aspect to consider when it comes to cardiovascular health is exercise. Finding a way to get up and move every day is crucial if you want to live your longest life and maintain a healthy heart. “Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day can help reduce your risk of heart disease, and it can also help you manage your weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels,” Seitz says. Even just taking a quick walk after dinner can do wonders for your heart—and your overall health.
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#3 Limit alcohol consumption
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to a range of health issues, and that includes problems with your heart. That’s not to say you have to stop drinking altogether, but it’s always best to practice moderation. As Dr. Seitz notes, “drinking alcohol in moderation can be part of a healthy lifestyle, but drinking too much alcohol can lead to problems. Too much alcohol can contribute to high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke.” Yikes! For this reason, it’s best to limit your intake and be careful not to go overboard when drinking if you want to lead a long, healthy life.
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#4. Manage stress
Chronic stress can affect more than just your mental and emotional health. As it turns out, Dr. Seitz says that the issue can can take a serious toll on your heart health over time. For this reason, he tells us that managing stress is a vital part of maintaining a healthy heart and living a long life. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to do this, and you’re sure to find a method that works well for you. “Exercise, meditation, and spending time with friends and family can all help reduce stress levels,” Dr. Seitz says. If you incorporate these healthy habits into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to a happier, more carefree life—and, in turn, a healthier heart.
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