How to Lower Your Risk of a Heart Attack

Heart attacks are a concern for millions of Americans. Research shows that in any given year, over 800,000 adults in the United States will suffer a heart attack. Also known as a myocardial infarction, it's a cardiovascular condition that's characterized by a blockage within the heart. In other words, heart attacks involve a lack of blood flow to the heart. You can lower your risk of a heart attack, however, by following these tips.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated can lower your risk of a heart attack. Studies have shown that adults who regularly drink five or more glasses of water daily are less likely to experience a heart attack than those who drink less water. Water helps to lubricate your arteries so that blockages are less likely to occur. At the same, it promotes a slower heart rate. These effects can help to lower your risk of a heart attack.

Control Your Cholesterol

Another tip to lower your risk of a heart attack is to control your cholesterol. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart attacks. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a type of fatty cholesterol that can stick to the walls within your arteries. At it builds up, LDL cholesterol can restrict blood flow to your heart, thereby placing you at risk for a heart attack. By getting your cholesterol levels under control, you'll be less likely to suffer a heart attack.

Here are some ways to control your cholesterol levels:

• Limit intake of saturated fats
• Increase intake of unsaturated fats (good fats)
• Include more soluble fiber in your diet
• Avoid smoking

Exercise Daily

Don't underestimate the importance of daily exercise. Not only will promote a healthy weight, daily exercise will lower your risk of a heart attack. The American Heart Association (AHA) specifically recommends 75 minutes of high-intensity aerobic exercise per week or 150 minutes of medium-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Following these exercise guidelines will promote a healthier cardiovascular system while lowering your risk of a heart attack.

Relax

It may sound unusual, but relaxing can lower your risk of a heart attack. Chronic and high stress levels are a contributing factor in many heart attacks. If you constantly experience high stress levels, your heart will respond by pumping faster. This increase in blood pressure can lead to a heart attack. Relaxing, of course, can lower your stress levels while subsequently lowering your risk of a heart attack in the process.