Lifestyle Changes to Keep Your Heart Alive

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world. More people die from this compared to other diseases such as cancer and diabetes. In 2008 alone, fifty-seven million people died all over the world, and 17.3 million or thirty percent of these people died because of different types of cardiovascular diseases.


The most common types of cardiovascular diseases that reap the world of its population are coronary heart disease and strokes. The problem with people with coronary heart disease lies in the blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the muscles of the heart. Strokes, on the other hand, is caused by blockage in the blood vessels.



Although genetic factors can be a major contributor in the emergence of these diseases, many would agree that an unhealthy lifestyle plays a big role too. For instance, what blocks the blood vessels are fats that accumulate in the walls, thus constricting the passage of blood. What could possibly be the reason behind it than inactivity, lack of exercise, and poor eating habits?


To ensure the health of our hearts, it is very important to change the way we live. Of course, it can’t be possibly achieved overnight. The key is to enact the changes slowly but constantly. Start with little things first and make sure to stick with that until that becomes a habit.


The first thing you can do is to include a few physical activities in your daily routine. Stop being a couch potato. Instead of spending your day in front of your television, do some house chores instead. You can also invest a few minutes making rounds in your neighborhood for a short morning walk, or you can also do a few simple exercises that can be done at home.


Including healthy foods in your daily meals is also very helpful, especially those that are rich with Omega-3 and lycopene like fish and tomatoes. In every meal, you must also include vegetables and fruits for a perfectly balanced meal, and lessen your intake of fatty foods. For snacks, you can substitute your chips with healthy nuts and fruit.


The hardest part to change in one’s lifestyle is inarguably one’s vices. The usage of tobacco and excessive alcohol intake is one of the main reasons of CVDs. Although it has been found out that moderate intake of red wine can help reduce the risk of having heart disease, too much can be harmful too. They key is self-control, moderation, and gradual change.


In this day and age where almost everything is detrimental to our health, it is quite hard to live a healthy lifestyle. But once you have the right motivation and reason to do so, it can be achieved.