Heart disease is a very common condition among adults. In fact, this disease is responsible for 17.3 million deaths every year, according to the American Heart Association. If you have a family history of this disease, you might be a little worried. However, if you take good care of yourself and know the common risk factors, you can reduce your risk of having heart disease. Here are four things that can affect your heart health:

Gum Disease

It turns out that gum disease can affect much more than your oral health. If you allow gum disease to progress to the later stages, the bacteria in your mouth can make its way to your bloodstream and attach to your heart blood vessels, increasing the risk of a heart attack. If you notice signs of gum disease, such as puffy and red gums, you should visit a dentist right away. Your dentist can help you treat the condition before it affects your heart and other parts of your body.

Stress

Too much stress can also have a negative effect on your heart. When you are overly stressed, you are more likely to have high blood pressure and engage in unhealthy habits, like smoking and overeating, increasing the risk of heart disease. Learning to manage your stress is crucial. The next time you feel stress, do something to calm yourself, such as practicing yoga or talking to a good friend.

Smoking

When you smoke, you are endangering more than your lungs. Smoking tobacco can also severely damage your heart and increase your risk of heart attacks. Quitting the habit is tough, but it is something you must do if you want to protect your heart. Ask your physician for advice about quitting smoking.

Overeating

Even if you can still maintain a slim physique, overeating is a dangerous habit. If you regularly eat fattening meals and oversized portions, it can put a lot of stress on your heart. To keep your heart in optimal shape, you should practice portion control and fill your diet with healthier foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and chicken.

Even if people in your family have been diagnosed with heart disease, you do not have to suffer from this condition. If you maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid things that are bad for your heart, you can dramatically reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall well-being.

Share