5 Essential Heart-Healthy Habits

Adopt New Habits Today

It's true that heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, but there are many changes you can make to help prevent it, such as quitting smoking, eating a low-cholesterol diet and exercising. In fact, you probably already follow some heart-healthy habits without even realizing it. If not, it's never too late to get started!

Get Out And Walk -- With Your Pooch or for Pleasure

If you walk your dog once or twice a day, you're already on your way to a healthier heart. A lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for developing heart disease. But according to the American Heart Association, even moderate-intensity activities, like walking for pleasure, can have long-term heart benefits if done daily. Even people who start exercising regularly after a heart attack have higher survival rates. So aim for at least 30 minutes of walking a day. If you don't have a dog, persuade a friend to join you.

Make the Switch to Whole Grains

Pureg your pantry of white bread, pasta and rice and stock it with whole-wheat and brown versions. This simple switch can do wonders for your heart. Whole grains are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and also contain fiber, which can help lower your cholesterol and keep you feeling fuller longer.

Get Enough ZZZs

A good night of sleep can do more than just help you feel rested -- it can boost your heart health, too. Untreated sleep problems are linked to heart disease and stroke, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Consistently getting less than seven hours of sleep a night may boost blood pressure, and getting less than five hours a night is associated with increased risk of heart disease, studies find. So strive for 7 to 9 hours of sound sleep per night. Talk to your doctor if you’re having a hard time getting the rest you need.

Brush Your Teeth

Something as simple as looking after your teeth and gums may help keep heart disease away. Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. And if you have a heart condition, gum disease can make it worse. It's still not exactly clear why, but brushing your teeth regularly, flossing, treating gum disease and keeping up with dentist appointments may help keep your heart in top shape.

Make Pleasure a Part of Your Day

Doing something pleasurable every day may help your heart, since doing things you enjoy is a natural stress buster. It's not clear whether stress can directly increase your risk for heart disease, but it can definitely raise your blood pressure (high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease) and may be associated with smoking and physical inactivity (two behaviors that may increase your risk of heart disease). So try to do at least one thing you enjoy every day, whether it's reading a book, meeting a friend or getting a massage -- even if it's only for 15 minutes.