Most adults know the basics of maintaining a healthy heart -- Regular exercise and a healthy diet. Today, we're going more in-depth into what that actually looks like and provide some more insight.
1. Avoid trans fats
What are trans fats? They are artificially produced fats used in packaged goods, snacks, margarines, and fast food used to add flavor. Trans fats increase LDL (bad cholesterol) and clog your arteries. This leads to heart attacks, strokes, impotence and various circulation problems. Our body does need healthy fats to operate efficiently, so stick to plant derived fats sourced from nuts or avocados.
2. Don't sit for too long
Activity is key, the worst thing that has happened to us with the evolution of technology is our now sedentary lifestyle. Most of us are staring at a computer screen for prolonged periods of time. Our bodies were designed to be constantly active; hunting, building and reproducing. Not only is sitting bad for our hearts, it also increases our risk of blood clots due to poor circulation. Make a constant effort to get up at least 3 times per hour, even park further from the entrance. Remember, activity is key, your heart depends on it.
3. Sleep at least 6 hours per night
It varies per person, but most adults require between 6-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep is one of the most overlooked requirements of a healthy body and mind. With technology keeping us up later at night, lack of sleep is quickly becoming an epidemic. Regardless of your age, diet or health habits, lack of sleep significantly increases your risk of heart disease. Our bodies use this valuable rest time to regulate our blood pressure, repair cells, and fight inflammation.
In addition to incorporating these three habits into your lifestyle, be sure to add a good fish oil or CO-Q10 supplement to your daily regiment.
