Strategies To Reduce Heart Attack Risk

​According to experts, heart problems are the leading cause of death in America. While for some people, heart problems are genetic, it's a result of poor life choices for most people. Luckily, adopting a few healthy lifestyle tips can help you lead a better, healthier life. Here are a few things to do that could help you minimize the risk of a heart attack.

Quit Smoking
Tobacco contains chemicals that can harm your heart and blood arteries, making your heart work harder. So, if you want to have a healthier heart, you should stop smoking. Even if you don't smoke, secondhand smoke can impact you if you're around individuals who do.

Exercise More
Physical activity daily can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Being active aids in weight management. It also lowers the risk of acquiring other heart-related illnesses, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. If you haven't been active in a while, you may need to work your way up gradually, but you should aim for at least thirty to sixty minutes every day.

Eat Healthier 
A balanced diet can help protect the heart, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, and improve blood pressure and cholesterol. The following foods are included in a heart-healthy diet plan:

• Fruits and vegetables.
• Legumes. (beans and other legumes)
• Fish and lean meats.
• Dairy products that are low in fat or fat-free.
• Grains. (whole)
• Good fats.

Regularly Schedule Health Checks
Excessive blood pressure and cholesterol can harm the heart and blood arteries. You won't know if you have certain conditions unless you're tested for them. Regular screening can help you figure out your statistics and whether you need to act. Your check-up should cover:

• Blood pressure tests to avoid strokes.
• Cholesterol checks.
• Type 2 diabetes is often linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Keep a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can be a problem as it increases the risk of heart disease. Excess weight can lead to illnesses that raise the risk of heart disease. Calculating your BMI (body mass index) helps determine if you're a healthy weight by comparing your height and weight. 

Get Plenty of Rest
Obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes, and depression are all increased in people who don't get enough sleep. The average adult needs at least seven hours of sleep per night. Set a sleep pattern and adhere to it. To make sleeping easier, keep your bedroom dark and quiet.

Conclusion 
Health is wealth, so make sure that you're working hard to keep your health in check. Hopefully, our guide helped you understand how to better care for your health and heart. A few lifestyle changes can make a difference and give you a longer, healthier life.

At Arnold, Bruce & Doerfler Insurance, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (503) 222-1951. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE. The coverage discussed in this article is not guaranteed. Please call our agents, we are happy to help you learn more about your plan and make sure you have the coverage you need.