Heart disease is the leading killer of Americans, resulting in nearly 700,000 deaths a year. More than 18 million people in the United States have coronary heart disease, the most common kind. While heart disease can be an inherited problem, it can also be caused by environmental and behavioral factors.

Developing healthy habits can help reduce your risk and severity of heart disease.

First, and most impactful – STOP SMOKING! Smoking cigarettes is incredibly harmful to your health for several reasons, primarily because of the chemicals in tobacco smoke and how they affect your body over time.

  • Smoking cigarettes leads to damage to blood vessels and the heart, leading to increased risks of heart disease, heart attacks, stroke and peripheral artery disease.
  • It raises blood pressure and reduces the oxygen level in your blood, making your heart work harder.
  • It also damages your lungs and airways, leading to conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema (known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD).
  • Cigarettes lead to an increased risk of cancer. Smokers are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers.

To help you quit smoking, visit smokefree.gov or call 1-800-Quit-Now

Second, eat healthy foods and maintain a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall health and well-being. It benefits your body in many ways, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and helping you feel your best. Remember to:

  • Eat foods low in saturated fats, high in fiber and whole grains. Fruits, vegetables and lean meats are also heart healthy options.
  • Avoid high salt, high fat and high sugar foods and drinks.
  • Avoid alcohol or drink alcohol in moderation.
  • Get moving! Exercise often. Moderate activity like brisk walking, bike riding, swimming, etc.
  • Reduce Stress, it’s easier said than done.

Remember CMC offers a free Employee Assistance Program providing mental health resources, free therapy sessions, stress-reducing tips and much more!

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