The Ultimate Guide To Heart Health: Everything You Need To Know

Heart health is one of the most important things you can take care of in your life. I have seen too many people ignore the warning signs until it’s too late. Your heart beats about 100,000 times every day, pumping blood to keep you alive. When something goes wrong with your heart, it affects your whole body.

The good news is that you can prevent most heart problems by making simple changes to your daily life. Heart disease kills more people than any other illness, but most cases can be prevented with the right knowledge and actions.

Understanding Your Heart and How It Works

That mighty heart fits right in your palm. It sits in the middle of your chest, slightly to the left. The heart has four chambers – two on top, called atria, and two on the bottom, called ventricles. These chambers work together to pump blood through your body every second of every day.

The right heart pumps blood to the lungs, and the left sends it through your body. If arteries clog, a heart attack can strike. I like to think of your heart as the engine of your body. Just like a car engine, it needs the right fuel, regular maintenance, and care to keep running smoothly. When you take care of your heart, you take care of your whole body.

Common Heart Problems You Should Know About

Heart disease comes in many forms. The most common type is coronary artery disease, where fatty deposits build up in your arteries. Other types include heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and problems with heart valves.

Heart disease symptoms vary from person to person. I have worked with people who had obvious symptoms, and others who had none of them. Red flags to keep on your radar:

Physical symptoms:

Crushing chest pain, like a heavyweight pressing down.

Shortness of breath, especially when lying down or during activity
Feeling exhausted even after rest
Swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet
Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

Less obvious symptoms:

Dizziness or feeling faint
Nausea or vomiting
Pain in your jaw, neck, or back
Feeling anxious or having a sense of doom

Some people don’t have any symptoms at all. This is called “silent” heart disease. This is why regular check-ups are so important, especially if you have risk factors.

Signs of a Heart Attack – Know the Emergency Signals

Signs of a heart attack need immediate attention. I cannot stress this enough – time is muscle for heart attacks. Quick action boosts your odds of surviving and healing.

Call 911 right away if you or someone else has these symptoms:

Classic heart attack symptoms:

Severe chest pain that feels like crushing, squeezing, or burning
Pain spreads to your left arm, but can also affect your right arm, jaw, neck, or back
Shortness of breath
Cold sweats
Nausea or vomiting
Feeling like you’re going to pass out

Women’s heart attack symptoms:

Women often have different symptoms from men. I have seen many women delay getting help because their symptoms don’t match what they expect. Women might experience:

Extreme fatigue that lasts for days
Pain in the back, neck, or jaw
Nausea and vomiting
Shortness of breath without chest pain
Feeling like they have the flu

Heart attack symptoms in older adults:

People over 65 might have even more subtle symptoms:

Sudden confusion
Feeling feeble
Fainting
Mild chest discomfort rather than severe pain

Remember, it’s better to call 911 and be mistaken than to wait and be sorry.

How to Check Your Heart Health at Home

How to check heart health at home is easier than you think. I have tested many simple methods that work well and don’t cost much money. While these tests cannot replace seeing a doctor, they can help you keep track of your heart health between visits.

Simple Tests You Can Do Today

1. Check your resting heart rate:

Put two fingers (not your thumb) on the inside of your wrist, just below your palm. You should feel your pulse. Check your pulse while resting count for 15 seconds, and multiply by 4. Normal is 60–100 bpm, lower for athletes. Consult a doctor if levels stay too high or too low.

2. Monitor your blood pressure at home:

Home blood pressure monitors cost about $20-50 and are very accurate when used correctly. I recommend getting one with an arm cuff rather than a wrist cuff for better accuracy.

Tips for accurate reading:

Sit quietly for 5 minutes before checking
Don’t drink coffee or exercise for 30 minutes before
Use the bathroom first
Sit with your feet flat on the floor
Lay your arm flat so it lines up with your heart.
Take 2-3 readings and write down the average

Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. High blood pressure is 130/80 or higher.

3. Do the stair test:

This simple test can tell you a lot about your heart fitness. Walk up two flights of stairs (about 20 steps) at a normal pace. If you can do this without getting very short of breath or having chest pain, your heart is probably in good shape.

If you get very windy or have chest pain, this might be a sign that your heart isn’t working as well as it should.

4. Check for swelling:

Look at your ankles and feet. Press your finger into the skin on your ankle for 10 seconds, then let go. If it leaves a dent that takes more than a few seconds to go away, this is called “pitting edema.” This might mean your heart isn’t pumping blood well.

6. Monitor your sleep:

Poor sleep can be a sign of heart problems, especially sleep apnea. If you snore loudly, stop breathing during sleep, or wake up feeling tired even after 8 hours of sleep, talk to your doctor.

Understanding Heart Palpitations and When to Worry

Heart Palpitations: Causes and What They Feel Like

Fluttering hearts often spark concern, though they’re usually harmless. Palpitations feel like your heart is:

Racing or beating too fast
Fluttering like a butterfly
Skipping beats
Pounding hard on your chest

I’ve felt those sudden heart flutters too unsettling. But understanding what causes them helps reduce the fear.

Common harmless causes:

Too much caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
Stress or anxiety
Not enough sleep
Dehydration
Low blood sugar
Some medications (like inhalers for asthma)
Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
Too much alcohol

When to worry about palpitations:

See a doctor if your palpitations:

Last more than a few minutes
Come with chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness
Happens very often (several times a day)
Make you faint

Resting heart rate can spike above 120 beats per minute.

Most palpitations are not dangerous, but it’s always better to check with your doctor if you’re worried.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease – What You Can and Cannot Control

Risk factors for heart disease fall into two groups: things you cannot change and things you can control. Understanding both helps you focus your energy on what matters most.

Risk factors you cannot change:

Age: Your risk goes up as you get older, especially after age 45 for men and 55 for women
Gender: Men have a higher risk at younger ages, but women catch up after menopause
Family history: If your parents or siblings have had heart disease before age 60, your risk is higher
Race: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans have higher risks

Risk factors you can control:

Smoking: This is the biggest risk factor you can change
High blood pressure: Often called the “silent killer” because it has no symptoms
Cholesterol clogs arteries slowly
Diabetes harms blood vessels
Excess weight strains your heart
Lack of exercise weakens your heart
Junk food fuels health problems
Stress drives up blood pressure
Too much alcohol: More than 2 drinks per day for men or 1 for women

The good news is that changing even one risk factor can make a big difference in your heart health.

Major Health Conditions That Affect Heart Health

High Blood Pressure and Heart Health – The Silent Killer

High blood pressure and heart health are closely connected. High blood pressure makes your heart work harder to pump blood through your body. Over time, this extra work can damage your heart muscles and blood vessels.

It’s silent, sneaky, and dangerously symptom-free.

What do the numbers mean?

Normal: Less than 120/80
Elevated: 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic
Stage 1 High Blood Pressure: 130-139/80-89
Stage 2 High Blood Pressure: 140/90 or higher
Crisis: Higher than 180/120 (call 911)

I have seen many people lower their blood pressure naturally by making these changes:

Diet changes:

Cut back on sodium—keep it under 2,300 mg daily.

Eat more potassium-rich foods (bananas, spinach, beans)
Limit processed foods
Drinking less alcohol

Lifestyle changes:

Lose weight if you’re overweight
Exercise regularly (even 30 minutes of walking)
Quit smoking
Manage stress better
Get enough sleep (7-9 hours per night)

Diabetes and Heart Disease – A Dangerous Partnership

Diabetes and heart disease often go together. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease than people without diabetes. High blood sugar damages blood vessels all over your body, including the ones that supply your heart.

How diabetes hurts your heart:

High blood sugar makes your blood thicker and stickier
It damages the lining of your blood vessels
It increases inflammation in your body
It often comes with other risk factors like high blood pressure and obesity

If you have diabetes:

Keep your blood sugar as close to normal as possible

Monitor HbA1c every few months—aim to stay below 7%.

Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol closely
Take your medications exactly as prescribed
See your doctor regularly

Preventing diabetes:

If you don’t have diabetes yet, you can prevent it by:

Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a balanced diet with less sugar and refined carbs
Exercising regularly
Not smoking

Smoking Effects on Heart – Why Every Cigarette Matters

Smoking effects on the heart are immediate and long-lasting. Each puff harms your heart and blood vessels. I have seen the difference between the hearts of smokers and non-smokers, and it’s shocking.

How smoking hurts your heart:

It damages the lining of your arteries
It makes your blood more likely to clot
Lowers your oxygen supply.
It makes your heartbeat faster and works harder
It lowers cholesterol and raises good cholesterol
It makes your blood vessels narrower

The good news about quitting: I like this fact because it gives people hope: your heart health starts improving just 20 minutes after you quit smoking. Here’s what happens:

20 minutes: Heart rate and blood pressure drop
12 hours: Carbon monoxide levels return to normal
In 2–12 weeks, blood flow gets better, and lungs work more efficiently.
1 year: The Risk of heart disease is cut in half
5 years: The Risk of stroke is the same as a non-smoker
15 years: The Risk of heart disease is the same as someone who never smoked

Getting help to quit:

Ask your doctor about helpful medications.
Try nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges)
Join a support group
Use apps or online programs
Asking family and friends for support

Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes That Work

Heart-Healthy Diet Tips – What to Eat and What to Avoid

Heart-healthy diet tips can make a vast difference in your heart health. I have tested many eating plans, and these foods consistently work best for your heart.

Foods that help your heart:

Fish and seafood:

Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel pack a punch of omega-3s.
These healthy fats reduce inflammation and lower triglycerides
Aim for 2 servings of fish per week

Fruits and vegetables:

Produce-rich diets boost heart health across the board.
Berries are especially good because they’re high in antioxidants
Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens brim with vital nutrients.
Aim for 5-9 servings per day

Whole grains:

Oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread
These provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol
Choose whole grains over refined grains

Nuts and seeds:

Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds
These provide healthy fats and protein
One ounce a day is just right.

Healthy oils:

Olive oil, avocado oil, and canola oil
These are better for your heart than butter or lard

Foods to limit for better heart health:

Red meat:

Red meat, like beef, pork, and lamb, is rich in saturated fat
Stick to lean cuts and eat just a few times weekly.

Processed foods:

Deli meats, hot dogs, and packaged snacks are high in sodium
They also contain preservatives that may harm your heart

Sugary drinks:

Sugary drinks like soda and juice load up on empty calories.
They can lead to weight gain and diabetes

Foods high in salt:

Canned soups, frozen dinners, and restaurant food are often very high in sodium
Too much salt raises blood pressure
Keep daily sodium under 2,300 mg.

Trans fats:

Found in some margarines, baked goods, and fried foods
These are the worst types of fat for your heart
Check ingredient labels and avoid “partially hydrogenated oils.”

Best Exercises for Heart Health – Moving Your Way to a Stronger Heart

Daily, no-frills movement powers up your heart. I have tried many types of exercise, and these work best for heart health.

Aerobic exercise (cardio):

This type of exercise makes your heartbeat faster and improves how well it pumps blood.

Walking:

Start with 10 minutes a day if you’re not used to exercise
Get moving
Walk daily and aim for 30 minutes most days.
I like walking because it’s easy on your joints

Swimming:

A successful full-body workout that’s easy on your joints
Works your heart and lungs without stressing your bones
Option: if you have arthritis or back problems

Cycling:

Cycle outdoors or use a stationary bike—both work well.
Start with 15-20 minutes and build up gradually
Good for people who have trouble with their knees

Dancing:

Fun way to get your heart rate up
Can be done at home with online videos
Social dancing is also successful for your mental health

Strength training lightens your heart’s load and improves performance.

Simple strength exercises:

Push-ups (start on your knees if regular push-ups are too hard)
Squats using just your body weight
Light weights or resistance bands
Yoga or Pilates

How much exercise do you need?

Aim for 30 minutes of moderate movement, five days a week.
Or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week
Add strength training 2 days per week
If you’re just starting, even 5-10 minutes helps

Exercise safety tips:

Start slowly if you haven’t exercised in a while
Pause your workout if you get chest pain, struggle to breathe, or feel dizzy.
Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program if you have heart problems
Stay hydrated and don’t exercise in very hot weather

Stress Management for Heart Health – Protecting Your Heart from Stress

Stress management for heart health is crucial because chronic stress can seriously damage your heart. I have seen stress cause real heart problems, including heart attacks and high blood pressure.

How stress hurts your heart:

Raise your blood pressure
Increase inflammation in your body
Can lead to unhealthy behaviors like overeating, smoking, or drinking too much
Disrupts your sleep
Makes your blood more likely to clot

Signs you might be too stressed:

Feeling anxious or worried most of the time
Having trouble sleeping
Feeling tired even after rest
Getting headaches often
Having stomach problems
Feeling irritable or angry

Effective ways to manage stress:

Deep breathing exercises: This is my favourite stress buster because you can do it anywhere. Try this simple technique:

Sit comfortably and close your eyes
Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 counts
Hold your breath for 4 counts
Breathe out slowly through your mouth for 6 counts
Repeat 5-10 times

Meditation and mindfulness:

Just 10 minutes a day can help lower blood pressure
Many free apps can guide you
Stay grounded—let tomorrow wait.

Regular exercise:

Movement melts stress fast.
It releases natural mood-boosting chemicals in your brain
A quick stroll lifts your mood.

Social connections:

Talk to friends and family about what’s bothering you
Join a club or group with people who share your interests
Consider counselling if you’re dealing with major stress

Healthy hobbies:

Reading, gardening, crafts, or music can help you relax
Choose activities that you enjoy and that help you forget your worries
Make time for fun – it’s not selfish, it’s necessary

Better sleep habits:

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night
Keep your bedroom cool and dark
Cut screen time an hour before sleep for better rest.
Try relaxation techniques if your mind races at bedtime

Natural Remedies for Heart Health

Natural Remedies for Heart Health – Traditional Approaches That May Help

Ancient wisdom has long embraced nature to boost heart health. While they’re not replacements for medical treatment, some may support your overall heart health when used along with proven treatments.

Foods and drinks with heart benefits:

Green tea:

Rich in antioxidants called catechins
It may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure
Drink 2-3 cups per day for the best effects
Choose decaffeinated if you’re sensitive to caffeine

Dark chocolate:

Contains flavonoids that may help blood vessels relax
Choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa
Keep small portions (1 ounce per day)
This doesn’t mean you can eat candy bars!

Berries:

Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants
May help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol
Fresh or frozen berries are both good options
Add them to cereal, yogurt, or eat them as snacks

Pomegranate juice:

High in antioxidants
Some studies suggest it may help blood flow
Choose 100% juice without added sugar
Limit to 4-6 ounces per day because of natural sugars

Herbs and spices with potential heart benefits:

Turmeric:

Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties
Add to cooking or try turmeric tea
It may help reduce inflammation in blood vessels

Cinnamon:

It may help lower blood sugar and cholesterol
Add oatmeal, coffee, or baked goods
Ceylon cinnamon is considered safer than cassia cinnamon

Ginger:

It may help reduce inflammation
Can be consumed as tea, added to cooking, or taken as supplements
It may also help with nausea and digestion

Important cautions about natural remedies:

“Natural” doesn’t always mean safe
Some herbs can interact with medications
Quality varies widely in herbal supplements
Always tell your doctor about any natural remedies you’re using
Don’t stop taking prescribed medications without talking to your doctor first

Medical Treatment and Recovery Options

Heart Disease Treatment Options – Modern Medicine for Your Heart

Heart disease treatment options have improved dramatically in recent years. The right treatment depends on your specific condition, how severe it is, and your overall health.

Medications for different heart conditions:

For high blood pressure:

ACE inhibitors help blood vessels relax
Beta-blockers slow your heart rate
They flush out excess water from your system.
Calcium channel blockers help blood vessels widen

For high cholesterol:

Stations are the most common and effective
They can lower cholesterol by 30-50%
Some people experience muscle pain as a side effect
Regular blood tests monitor for problems

For blood clots:

Blood thinners like aspirin, warfarin, or newer medications
They prevent clogs but increase bleeding risk
Regular monitoring is often needed
Important to take exactly as prescribed

Procedures to open blocked arteries:

Angioplasty:

A tiny balloon opens blocked arteries
Often combined with placing a stent (small metal tube) to keep the artery open
Usually done through a small incision in your wrist or groin
Most people go home the same day or the next day

Bypass surgery:

Surgeons create alternative routes around blocked arteries
Harvests vessels from elsewhere to support circulation.
More invasive than angioplasty, but may last longer
Usually requires 3-5 days in the hospital

Other procedures:

Pacemakers:

Small devices that help control the heart rhythm
Implanted under the skin near your collarbone
Batteries last 5-15 years, depending on type.

Defibrillators:

Can shock your heart back to normal rhythm if needed
Often combined with pacemaker functions
It could protect you from life-threatening arrhythmias.

Recovery After Heart Attack – Getting Your Life Back

Recovery after a heart attack takes time, patience, and commitment. I have seen many people make excellent recoveries by following their treatment plan and making lifestyle changes.

What happens in the hospital:

The doctor works quickly to restore blood flow to your heart
You’ll be monitored closely for complications
Most people stay 3-5 days, depending on the damage
You’ll start medications to protect your heart

Cardiac rehabilitation program: This is one of the most important parts of recovery, but many people skip it. Cardiac rehab includes:

Exercise training:

Supervised exercise sessions 2-3 times per week
Gradually builds up your strength and endurance

Tracks pulse and pressure while you work out.

Teaches you how to exercise safely at home

Education about heart health:

Learn about your medications and why they’re important
Understand your heart condition and how to manage it
Get help with diet planning and weight management
Learn stress management techniques

Emotional support:

Therapy helps ease post-heart attack fear and anxiety.
Support groups with other heart attack survivors
Help with depression, which is common after heart attacks

Timeline for recovery:

First few weeks:

Take it easy and follow your doctor’s instructions
Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds
Avoid driving until your doctor says it’s okay
Take your medications exactly as prescribed

1-3 months:

Gradually increase your activity level
Start cardiac rehabilitation if recommended
Return to work (timing depends on your job)
May resume sexual activity (ask your doctor)

3-6 months:

Should be back to most normal activities
Continuing with exercise and healthy eating
Regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist

Long-term:

Take medications for life in most cases
Continuing healthy lifestyle habits
Regular check-ups and tests
Watch for signs of problems and report them promptly

Special Populations and Heart Health Considerations

Women’s Heart Health – Unique Challenges and Solutions

Women face unique cardiac challenges, yet often overlook that it’s their top health threat.

How women’s heart disease is uncommon:

Symptoms may be different:

Women are more likely to have shortness of breath, nausea, and back or jaw pain during heart attacks
Chest pain may be less severe or feel different than the classic “crushing” pain
Symptoms may come and go rather than being constant

Risk factors specific to women:

Pregnancy complications (preeclampsia, gestational diabetes) increase future heart disease risk
Menopause increases risk because of the dropping estrogen levels
Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy may increase the risk
Autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are more common in women and increase heart disease risk

Heart health during different life stages:

Reproductive years:

Birth control choices should consider heart disease risk
Pregnancy planning should include a heart health assessment
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) increases heart disease risk

Pregnancy:

Heart health during pregnancy requires special attention. Your heart works 30-50% harder during pregnancy to support you and your baby.

Warning signs during pregnancy:

Severe shortness of breath
Chest pain
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Severe swelling
Fainting

After menopause:

Estrogen levels drop, which increases heart disease risk
Blood pressure and cholesterol often increase
Weight gain around the waist becomes more common
Regular screening becomes even more important

Prevention strategies for women:

Know your family history of heart disease
Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Don’t smoke (women who smoke have a higher heart disease than men who smoke)
Manage stress effectively
Get regular exercise
Eat a heart-healthy diet

Heart Health for Seniors – Aging and Your Heart

Heart health for seniors becomes more important as you age. Your heart changes as you get older, but many heart problems can still be prevented or managed effectively.

How your heart changes with age:

The heart muscle may become slightly thicker
Heart rate may slow down
Blood vessels become stiffer
Blood pressure often increases
Heart rhythm problems become more common

Common heart problems in older adults:

High blood pressure affects most people over 65
Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) becomes more common
Heart failure can develop from years of high blood pressure or other heart problems
Coronary artery disease may progress

Special considerations for seniors:

Medications:

Heart meds may require age-specific dosing.

More to have side effects or drug interactions
May take multiple medications that can interact
Kidney function may affect how medications work

Exercise for seniors:

Regular activity is still precious
May need to modify exercises for joint problems
Balance exercises become important to prevent falls
Swimming and walking are often choices

Other health conditions:

Diabetes management becomes more complex
Blood pressure control may require more medication
Cholesterol goals may be different
Depression can affect heart health and medication compliance

Warning signs seniors shouldn’t ignore:

New or worsening shortness of breath
Swelling in legs or feet
Unexplained fatigue
Dizziness or fainting
Chest discomfort or pain

Telemedicine for Heart Care – Healthcare from Home

Telemedicine for heart care has made it easier than ever to get expert heart care, especially for people in rural areas or those with mobility issues.

What telemedicine can do for heart patients:

Virtual consultations:

Video calls with cardiologists from your home
Review test results and discuss treatment options
Medication adjustments without office visits
Follow-up care after procedures
Second opinions from specialists

Remote monitoring:

Blood pressure readings sent directly to your doctor
Heart rhythm monitoring through wearable devices
Weight tracking for heart failure patients
Medication compliance monitoring

Educational resources:

Online classes about heart health
Virtual cardiac rehabilitation programs
Nutritional counselling via video calls
Stress management sessions

Benefits of telemedicine:

Saves time and travel costs
Reduces exposure to infections
Makes specialist care available in rural areas
Allows more frequent monitoring
Can catch problems earlier

When you still need in-person care:

Physical examinations
Certain diagnostic tests
Emergencies
Procedures and surgeries
Initial consultations for complex problems

Taking Action for Better Heart Health

Protecting your heart today secures a healthier tomorrow. Every slight change you make today can add years to your life and life to your years.

Start with these simple steps today:

This week:

Take a 10-minute walk after dinner
Add one extra serving of vegetables to your daily meals
Practice deep breathing for 5 minutes when you feel stressed
Check your blood pressure if you haven’t recently
Make an appointment for a check-up if you’re overdue

This month:

Join a gym or start a home exercise routine
Learn to cook one new heart-healthy recipe each week
Quit smoking or reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke
Find healthy ways to manage stress
Get your cholesterol checked

This year:

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly (aim for 150 minutes per week)
Follow a heart-healthy diet most of the time
Take medications as prescribed
Build strong relationships and manage stress well

Remember these key points:

Tiny steps lead to lasting heart health—
Start anytime
Prevention is much easier than treatment
Your heart affects every part of your body

You hold more power over your heart health than it seems.

When to see a doctor:

If you have any symptoms of heart disease
For regular check-ups, even if you feel fine
Before starting a new exercise program, if you have risk factors
If you’re having trouble managing stress, blood pressure, or other risk factors
Any time you’re concerned about your heart health

I have seen people transform their lives by focusing on their heart health. Some have avoided heart attacks, others have recovered completely from heart disease, and many have simply felt better and had more energy for the things they love.

Your heart’s been beating for you since before birth. It deserves your attention and care. Start today, start small, but start. Your future self will thank you for every healthy choice you make right now.

Final thoughts:

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, but it doesn’t have to be your fate. With the right knowledge, tools, and commitment, you can keep your heart healthy for years to come. The information in this guide gives you everything you need to get started.

Women’s heart health faces unique challenges that are often overlooked. Many women are unaware that heart disease is their top health threat. Remember, I’m not a doctor, and this information doesn’t replace professional medical advice.

Always work with your healthcare team to create a plan that’s right for your specific situation. But don’t wait for permission to start living a heart-healthy life. Begin today and let each healthy choice build on the next.

Your heart health journey starts now. Every beat is a new opportunity to choose health, vitality, and a longer, more fulfilling life. Make it count.