Every Day things to Keep Your Heart Healthy

I've posted before we don't always think about our insides. We look at our appearance on the outside and want to change it. We definitely shouldn't be overlooking our heart health though. So below are some tips to follow every day to keep you heart going strong!

Eat healthy fats, NOT trans fats. Trans fats increase your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. It clogs your arteries and raises your LDL and lowers your HDL. We do need fats in our diets though including saturated and polyunsaturated and unsaturated fats.

Good dental hygiene, you should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing! Dental health is a good indication of overall health, including your heart. People with periodontal disease often have the same risk factors for heart disease. Gum disease can move into our bloodstream. So make sure you take care of your teeth!

Get enough sleep! If you don't sleep enough your at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease no matter your age or health habits. Studies show that individuals that slept fewer than 6 hours per night were about twice as likely to have a stroke or a heart attack than people who slept 6-8 hours. They suggest 7-8 hours is optimal!

Don't sit for a long time at one time. This is geared for anyone who stays home or who has a sit down job. Studies show that people who sit for long periods of time have a higher chance for cardiovascular disease and blood clots. Tips, park further away than usual, get up at your desk and walk in place, if you are at home and you watch a movie get up and move for a little bit before sitting back down.

Avoid smoking and second hand smoke! We all know smoking is bad for you, I have no room to talk I battle it! Smoking can cause premature heart disease, death, cancer, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and more. It's just as bad as if you are a non smoker trapped near a smoker.

Try and follow these tips, there are also vitamins and supplements for your heart and taking a baby aspirin every night doesn't hurt you either.