For a long and healthy life, it’s essential to consider your heart health. Below are some effective ways to address your heart health every day:

1. Stop smoking! Quitting smoking is the number one thing you can do to boost your heart health. Did you know that the threat of heart attack for former smokers is the same as it is for non-smokers within three years of quitting?!If you’ve been putting it off, make it your goal to quit this year!
2. Get Moving! The chance of heart disease increases significantly in sedentary people versus people who get regular physical activity. No need to run a marathon – moderate intensity exercise such as walking, swimming or biking are great choices. The key is to keep it regular, and make sure you move every day.
3. Brush & Floss. Did you know that taking care of your teeth is an essential element of heart health? The risk of experiencing a heart attack or a stroke increases by 50% if you have gum disease.
4. Eat Your Fruits & Veggies. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Be sure to enjoy foods that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and high in fiber. A healthy, balanced diet helps to prevent high blood cholesterol, and the less sodium you have in your diet, the better.
5. Start Laughing! Laughing can be a great workout for your heart. Each time you chuckle, the blood flow in your heart increases for up to 45 minutes, which is an excellent way to promote heart health.