Healthy heart: 9 simple habits to support well-being.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and many common lifestyle habits are reported to influence cardiovascular risk.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and many cases are linked to lifestyle factors that research shows can be modified. The article highlights American Heart Month as a moment to reflect on everyday habits that affect the heart. It summarizes evidence connecting regular aerobic activity and strength training, a balanced diet, tobacco avoidance, moderated alcohol use, stress management, and adequate sleep with cardiovascular risk. The piece also notes routine health checks and basic blood tests as common ways to monitor key markers. Key points: - Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and lifestyle factors are reported as major contributors. - Aerobic exercise such as walking and resistance training are linked in studies to lower risks of heart attack and stroke. - Diets emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats are presented as supportive of heart health, while processed foods, trans fats, and high-fructose corn syrup are associated with higher risk. - Smoking, excess alcohol consumption, chronic stress, and insufficient sleep are described as factors associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Summary: The article presents several common lifestyle habits that are associated with lower cardiovascular risk and outlines monitoring approaches used to watch for changes in heart-related markers. It reports that routine blood tests and blood pressure checks are ways to track markers such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar, and that specific follow-up or treatment depends on individual clinical assessment.