Consume too much salt
Eating too much salt, especially from processed foods, increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart failure. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), salt intake exceeding 5 grams/day as recommended by WHO can be harmful to cardiovascular health.
Low motivation
Sitting for too long and lack of exercise are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Research from Harvard University shows that people who sit too much have a 147% higher risk of heart disease than those who are regularly active.
Prolonged stress
Stress constantly increases cortisol levels in the body, causing inflammation and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis. This can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular disease.
Lack of sleep
Sleeping less than 6 hours a night increases the risk of heart disease by up to 48%. Not getting enough sleep can cause problems with blood pressure and blood sugar, negatively affecting cardiovascular health.
Smoking and drinking alcohol
Smoking is a major cause of coronary artery disease, while drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and cause heart rhythm disturbances. These are two major risk factors contributing to the development of cardiovascular disease.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), try to limit processed foods and instead make homemade dishes from fresh ingredients. Read food labels to know the amount of salt in the product and try not to exceed 5 grams/day.
Exercise at least 150 minutes a week to reduce the risk of heart disease. Activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling all help improve cardiovascular health.
At the same time, practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to reduce cortisol levels in the body. These activities help relax the mind, reduce stress and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Make sure to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night to support heart health. Getting enough sleep helps regulate blood pressure, balance blood sugar and improve overall health.
