Health Education

12 Common Heart Health Mistakes, and How to Avoid Them

May 25, 2024

10 min read

HGF Team

The subject of heart health can be overwhelming (and frankly a little scary). We all know we have to eat clean and exercise to have a healthy ticker. But there are also a few things you may be doing wrong right now that are sure to give you an achy breaky heart.

The power of prevention is key. However, it's important to know that the prevention of heart disease doesn't look the same for everyone. Varying factors such as age, gender and genetics all play a role. But don't get discouraged, it's not too late to get heart-smart and on the right track.

1. Not Getting Enough Sleep

An erratic sleeping schedule does more harm than good. Having less than six hours of sleep a night increases your odds of becoming obese and getting diabetes, both harmful to your heart. But the extreme opposite can also be fatal: more than nine hours raises your odds of diabetes and stroke. Aim for the seven-to-eight hour mark.

2. Binge Drinking

Excessive drinking increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Consuming copious amounts of alcohol can increase blood pressure, one of the main factors contributing to heart failure.

3. Ignoring Warning Signs During Exercise

The saying "too much of anything is bad" rings true for healthy habits too. When you exercise too long or push yourself too hard, it may put you at risk for a heart attack. Start with light workouts and always consult a professional before embarking on a new fitness routine.

4. Eating Unhealthy Food

Overconsumption of junk food is associated with premature heart disease. Saturated fat and glycemic starch can lead to obesity, diabetes and hypertension. The high salt content raises blood pressure, putting you at high risk of heart-related ailments.

5. Stress and Anxiety

The effects of stress, even in a healthy individual, can put a strain on the heart. There are stress management practices such as meditation that you can try to keep your heart happy and safe.

6. Skipping Preventative Care

Skipping out on annual checkups means missing routine tests for cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar, all key to gauging heart health. It's always better to get ahead of any heart issues.

7. Not Screening Your Blood Pressure

Otherwise known as a silent disease, high blood pressure shows few to no symptoms. A staggering percentage of women don't know they're suffering from high blood pressure, putting many at risk for heart failure, heart disease or stroke.

8. Self-Medicating

Without professional help, you risk taking the wrong dosage resulting in adverse effects such as high blood pressure and stroke. A continuous self-medicating routine can be a sign of something more sinister like depression. Always consult your doctor.

9. Not Knowing the Warning Signs for You

Did you know that a heart attack can present differently in women than in men? And not all heart attacks show up as chest pain. This is why it's important to always go to your doctor for checkups.

10. Ignoring the Signs

Difficulty breathing is the most common heart health issue. Chest pain is also common in both cardiovascular disease and inflammation. No matter how big or small you believe the symptom to be, always consult your doctor.

11. Not Taking a Stand, Literally

Studies have shown the damage that sitting for long periods can do to your health. Get a standing desk, go for a short walk during lunch or after work to increase blood flow.

12. Refusal to Live Tobacco-Free

From decreased oxygen to the heart to increased risk for blood clots, smoking is one of the top risk factors for heart disease. It's extremely important to wean off the addiction to tobacco as soon as you can.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle results in good heart health. Although change can be tough or frightening, it is good. All it takes is a little willingness to modify your habits and your health is sure to go off the ch-hearts.

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