Research from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health shows that consuming sugar-laden beverages can significantly increase your risk of heart disease—regardless of how much you exercise. These drinks can lead to high blood pressure, chronic inflammation, and raised cholesterol levels.

Avoid Fast Food

If takeout is your go-to, this might be hard to hear. While we all know the importance of eating more vegetables and salads for weight management, frequent fast food consumption can seriously harm your heart.

Fast food may be tasty, but it’s packed with unhealthy fats, salt, and calories, which can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol.

Stay Active

If you’ve been meaning to dust off that forgotten gym membership, now’s the time. Regular exercise not only supports weight loss but also strengthens the heart muscle. A stronger heart pumps blood more efficiently and helps lower cholesterol levels.

Experts recommend aiming for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, along with two days dedicated to muscle-strengthening exercises.

Reduce Stress

Modern life can be overwhelming, but finding ways to relax and manage stress is essential for your heart health. Chronic stress causes an increase in stress hormones like cortisol, which can lead to elevated blood pressure and blood sugar, ultimately straining the heart.

Some people cope with stress by smoking or eating fast food, but these habits can actually worsen heart health. Instead, Dr. Levine recommends listening to calming music as a healthier way to unwind.

Lose Belly Fat

Reducing abdominal fat is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.

“Focus on losing weight, particularly if it’s concentrated around your midsection,” advises Dr. Levine. “Excess belly fat is linked to conditions like high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, fatty liver, and abnormal lipid levels. These are all part of metabolic syndrome, which poses a serious health risk.”