People At High Risk For Heart Disease (And What They Can Do)

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By Jason Kane

healthyheartbpHeart disease is one of the top killers of men and women in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four deaths is caused by heart disease.

Certain people are at a higher risk of developing it. Find out if you might be one of them, and how you can take preventative action against it now.

Smokers

Smoking tobacco products significantly raises your risk of developing heart disease or experiencing a heart attack. Likewise, long-term exposure to secondhand smoke can increase both of these health conditions as well.

To improve your heart health, quit smoking now. There is no better time. Visit your doctor to learn about smoking cessation programs that can help you be smoke-free.

Diabetics

People with diabetes or who are prediabetic are at a higher risk for developing heart disease. Prediabetics can make healthier lifestyle choices to reduce their risk of developing diabetes.
Daily exercise, a well-balanced diet and getting enough sleep are a few ways to start. Diabetics may have a more difficult time reducing their risk of heart disease though. High blood sugar levels can build up in your arteries, leading to excess plaque and ultimately, heart disease.

Speak with your doctor about ways that you can manage your blood sugar levels. In the meantime, diabetics can take some action on their own. Daily exercise is one of the easiest ways to manage blood sugar levels. Even a brisk, 30 minute walk can make a big difference. In addition to this, eating small meals throughout the day can ensure that your blood sugar levels are stable.

The Obese

bellymeasurementsmallObesity is one of the most common triggers of heart disease. This is partially due to the fact that many obese individuals also suffer from high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which put you at a higher than average risk for heart disease.

Individuals with a BMI over 30 are at the highest risk. Losing weight now and keeping it off will significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and other health complications. People who gain weight and lose weight often are also at a high risk.

The healthiest way to lose weight and maintain it is to change your lifestyle, and dedicate yourself to a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Hereditary Factors

If you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or heart attacks, you may be at a higher risk of developing these conditions. However, hereditary factors do not overrule unhealthy lifestyle choices.

In fact, by simply eating healthier, drinking more water, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly, you can reduce your risk and in some cases, eliminate it entirely.

Heart disease is a serious health concern that affects thousands of Americans. You can reduce your risk by being proactive in your health. Take care of your heart by making healthy lifestyle choices. Use the information provided to help you get started on your journey towards a healthier, happier heart that is free of heart disease.

– Jason Kane spent 2013 doing everything he could to improve his heart health. His goal in 2014 is to help other people do the same. He is a professional blogger who writes for AEDs Today.