Heart Disease / Cardiovascular Disease are a class of diseases that affects the heart and blood vessels many of which are related to a process called Atherosclerosis. Heart Diseases is the number one killer of women, learn how to protect yourself or someone you love.

1. Start Healthy Habit now –

Research indicates that women who lead a healthy lifestyle before the age of 50 have a better chance of avoiding heart disease and the conditions that increase the risk of it – such as diabetes and hypertension.

2. Get your Checkup –

Some factors that increase your risk for heart disease – including high cholesterol – have no symptoms. Get regular checkups that include a blood cholesterol test. Everyone should have their cholesterol checked annually starting at age 20.

3. Don’t Smoke –

Smoking can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease by two to four times.

4. Drink responsibly –

Drinking alcohol in moderation – particularly wise – can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease by 25%. For women, moderation means just one drink per day.

5. Brush your Teeth –

The bacteria that grow in your mouth and cause gum disease may double the risk for a heart attack. Regular brushing and flossing can sweeten your breath and improve your health.

6. Have Sex, but be safe –

Research suggests that people who have sex at least twice a week are less likely to develop heart disease. But proceed with caution and condom. A recent study found a tie between Human Papillomavirus Infection (HPV) – a sexually transmitted infection – and heart disease.

7. Choose your Birth Control wisely –

Birth Control Pills can increase your risk of a heart attack and blood clots. Some types of the pill have been shown to increase the risk of blood clots by up to 65% over other formulas, especially in women who have a high BMI or those who smoke.

8. Skip the Soda –

Studies have shown that women who drink two or more sugar – sweetened beverages such as soda per day have a higher risk of heart disease.

9. Relax –

Prolonged exposure to the stress hormone cortisol can damage your arterial linings, making it harder for your heart to do its job.

10. Stay Active –

Your heart needs regular workouts in order to keep it healthy, even if you have a healthy BMI. As little as 30 minutes of moderate activity per day can reduce your risk for heart disease.