Your heart works hard for you (about 100,000 beats per day, to be precise). Think of it as the overachiever of your internal organs, quietly crushing it while you binge-watch your favorite shows. But even the MVP of your body needs a little support now and then. Our friends at Virtua Health compiled four things your cardiologist wishes you knew to keep your heart in top-notch shape (because trust me, your heart is not thrilled about those midnight pizza runs).
1. Heart Health Isn't Just for "Older People"
Sure, heart disease is often associated with aging, but taking care of your heart should start early. From your 20s onward, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can prevent many issues down the road. When you exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress, your future self will thank you. (And yes, that means swapping some of those late-night fries for something green now and then.)
2. You Can't Outrun a Bad Diet
Have you ever went on a run or booked a workout class right after indulging in a cheat meal? Workouts can feel like magic erasers for indulgent meals, but your heart doesn’t work that way. A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can take a toll, even if you’re hitting the gym. Focus on heart-healthy options like whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and veggies. Bonus: your taste buds can learn to love quinoa… eventually.
3. Stress Is A Bigger Deal Than You Think
That project deadline or endless stream of emails might feel like they’re just part of your daily life, but chronic stress can seriously impact your heart health. Over time, it can raise blood pressure, disrupt sleep, and even increase the risk of a heart attack. Make time for stress-relief activities you genuinely enjoy, whether that’s yoga, gardening, or dramatically screaming into a pillow. (No judgment.)
4. Know Your Numbers
When was the last time you had your blood pressure or cholesterol checked? Exactly. Regular check-ups and knowing your key health metrics are vital. High blood pressure or cholesterol might not show symptoms until they’re causing serious problems, so don’t skip those appointments. It’s like giving your heart a friendly performance review, plus, who doesn’t love feedback?
Taking care of your heart doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, consistent steps can make a big difference, and understanding your risk is a great place to start. Take Virtua's Heart Health Risk Assessment to learn more about your cardiovascular health and what steps you can take to keep your heart strong. It only takes a few minutes, but your heart will thank you for years to come.
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