The human heart is made up of muscles and is a crucial part of the body’s circulatory system. Barely the size of a person’s fist, the heart’s mechanisms are both complex and interesting.
From making sure oxygenated blood flows throughout the body to supplying hormones to vital organs, you may be surprised to know how hard the organ works every day just to keep you alive. The heart’s everyday functions are sometimes jeopardized by some physical and external stressors, but it’s important one takes note of the tell-tale signs and makes some lifestyle changes to stop the damage right there and possibly, reverse it.
People risk long-term heart conditions by failing to stick to a heart-healthy diet or exercise. While it’s understood that incorporating mindful eating habits or workouts in busy modern-day lives is quite a task, some fascinating facts about the heart may influence you to take that route.
Here are some heart health facts that everyone should know:
- 1. Don’t overstress yourself
Managing your stress levels is key to overall health and when it comes to the heart, it is of supreme necessity. When the mind is depressed, its effects extend to the body. According to Heart.org, poor mental health increases blood pressure levels, which, in turn, leads to heart attack and stroke.
- 2. Quit smoking
Smoking is the harbinger of dreadful heart diseases. A 2019 study published in National Library of Medicine said quitting cigarettes can lead to weight gain but it had its own benefits. For those struggling to quit, nicotine patches are available to pacify cigarette cravings.
- 3. Bare your heart
Hoarding secrets or bottling up emotions are detrimental to the heart. Keeping up with friends and maintaining good social ties means your heart is happy. Persons without strong social connections are 20% more likely to die due to heart diseases, suicide or accidents, Health Day reported, citing a 2002 study.
- 4. Eat lots of fruits and veggies
Fruits and vegetables are packed with heart-healthy…
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