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We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

50 Habits That Can Put You at Risk of a Heart Attack

Some of your everyday habits might be taxing your ticker, without you realizing it.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Close-up photo of a brunette woman who is sitting on a couch with her eyes closed and her left hand touching her heart area.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

You pour it out, wear it on your sleeve, and love people from the bottom of it. But do you take care—we mean, proper care—of your heart?


For decades, heart disease has been the No. 1 killer of Americans.

The good news: You can make quick, easy changes to your lifestyle to cut your risk and add years to your life, and it's never too late. Here are the top 50 things you're probably doing that put you in danger—from the Body Network to you, with all our heart.

Not Getting Your Blood Pressure Checked

Woman Checking Blood Pressure At Home

Is your blood pressure in a healthy range? Are you sure? It might be higher than you think. In 2018, the American Heart Association lowered the guidelines for healthy blood pressure from 140/90 (and 150/80 for those older than 65) to 130/80 for all adults. According to Harvard Medical School, that means 70 to 79 percent of men over 55 technically have hypertension. Over time, that can weaken the walls of blood vessels, increasing your risk of stroke, heart attack and dementia.

How to fix it: To lower your risk, get your blood pressure checked soon — and regularly. Follow a heart-healthy diet, lose weight, and stay active. Read on to discover the best foods to eat.

Not Knowing Your Cholesterol Level

Cholesterol test

As we age, the body produces more cholesterol, which can build up in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. In women, menopause causes LDL ("bad") cholesterol to rise and HDL ("good") to drop. Experts advise getting your cholesterol checked every five years, but older adults may need it done more frequently. Your total cholesterol level should be less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), with an LDL level of less than 100 mg/dL and an HDL level of 60 mg/dL or higher.

How to fix it: To keep your levels in a healthy range, eat a diet low in saturated fat and trans fats, get exercise and maintain an ideal weight.

Eating Too Much Saturated Fat

Woman putting raw meat in refrigerator

There's been some confusion around fats and cholesterol and heart health in recent years, but the latest science is this: According to the American Heart Association, eating foods high in saturated fat raises LDL cholesterol in your blood, which increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. What foods are high in sat fat? Red meat, chicken with skin, butter and cheese.

How to fix it: For good heart health, the AHA recommends that you consume only 13 grams of saturated fat per day. (For context, a 1 oz slice of Swiss cheese contains 5 grams of saturated fat. A McDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese contains exactly 13 grams.) Focus your diet on lean protein and as many colorful fruits and vegetables as possible.

Not Getting Enough Exercise

group of women doing stretching exercises before intensive workout in spacious fitness studio

Lace up those old Reebok Pumps. The AHA's weekly exercise guidelines for heart health haven't changed, even though only about 20 percent of us follow them: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, plus muscle-strengthening exercise two times a week.

How to fix it: Some examples of moderate-intensity exercise are brisk walking, dancing, or gardening; vigorous exercise is running, hiking, or swimming. If you think you can't make 150 minutes, get moving anyway. Any amount of exercise is better for your heart than none.

Drinking Sugary Drinks

Man is dangerously eating junk food and cold drink while driving his car

It's no secret that too many of us are drinking too many of our daily calories. And what's bad for your waistline is bad for your heart. A March 2019 study published in the journal Circulation found that drinking sugary drinks was associated with an increased risk of death, particularly from cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Switch out that soda for water or seltzer without artificial sweeteners. (Read on to find out why diet soda isn't the answer.) "Drinking water in place of sugary drinks is a healthy choice that could contribute to longevity," says Vasanti Malik, the study's lead author and a research scientist at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Eating Too Much Sugar, Period

Sugar on background

Consuming too much added sugar — the sugar that manufacturers add to foods to sweeten them or extend their shelf life — won't just blow your pants budget; it's a major risk factor for heart disease. According to the National Cancer Institute, adult men consume 24 teaspoons of sugar a day, the equivalent of 384 calories! "The effects of added sugar intake — higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease — are all linked to an increased risk for heart attack and stroke," says Dr. Frank Hu, professor of nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

How to fix it: The American Heart Association advises that adults consume no more than 150 calories (about 9 teaspoons, or 36 grams) of added sugar daily. That's about the amount in a 12-ounce can of soda. To learn how to reduce your sugar cravings and lose a pound a week, check out the 14-day plan Zero Sugar Diet!

Drinking Too Much Alcohol

Two glasses of whiskey, one being filled from a bottle

Alcohol's effects on your liver and your beer gut are well-documented, but excessive drinking takes a toll on your heart, too. "Too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and triglycerides, which can increase your risk of heart disease," says Dr. Sarin Seema of EHE Health.

How to fix it: How much is too much? Seema recommends that women should have no more than one drink a day, and men should say when at two.

You Haven't Asked Your Doctor About Heart Testing

General practitioner and her aged patient talking about heart diseases

Little-known fact: Standard heart tests at your annual physical — and ECG and, in some cases, a stress test — aren't good at detecting clogged arteries until they're 70 percent blocked. You could ace both tests and still be on your way to a heart attack. Luckily, more advanced imaging and blood tests are available, along with genetic screening, to uncover arterial issues before they lead to heart disease.

How to fix it: Talk to your doctor about your personal and family health history to determine if it's time for a more extensive peek under your hood.

Drinking Diet Soda

Woman cracks open can sod

Studies show that people who drink diet sodas and other artificially sweetened beverages have a higher risk of metabolic syndrome. That's when your body has trouble processing insulin, which is a precursor to Type 2 diabetes. And that's a heart attack risk.

How to fix it: Swap out sugary beverages and diet drinks with classic H20, seltzers or homemade spa water. There are some excellent seltzer options that are completely unsweetened (LaCroix or Polar), are infused with tea (Sound) or have low amounts of natural sugar from a dash of fruit (Spindrift). Avoid any with artificial sweeteners.

You Have Untreated A-Fib

ekg ecg heart test with stethoscope

One in four Americans over the age of 40 could develop a type of irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation (AF or A-Fib). According to the Harvard Health Letter, because AF reduces the heart's pumping efficiency — by anywhere from 10 to 30 percent — it can lead to heart failure, angina and stroke.

How to fix it: If you're experiencing an irregular heartbeat — symptoms can include a fluttering in your chest, or you feel like your heartbeat is unusually rapid or slow — talk to your doctor, who can run basic tests like an ECG or refer you to a cardiologist, who may prescribe medication or other therapies.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Oversleeping

African American man fast asleep

The principle "too much of a good thing" applies to one of the best things of all: Sleep, particularly as we age. A review of research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that getting more than eight hours of shut-eye can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Nine hours comes with a moderate risk — and 11 hours was associated with a nearly 44 percent increase! (Un-fun fact: Oversleeping also increases your risk for dementia.)

How to fix it: The latest recommendation from sleep experts, including the National Sleep Foundation, is that adults should get seven to nine hours of sleep a night — no more, no less.

You're Socially Isolated

sad frustrated man with stubble in jeans, shirt holding fingers between close eyes using smart phone

It turns out the Lonely Hearts Club is a literal thing — and not a group you want to join. Feelings of loneliness and social isolation can increase a person's risk of having a heart attack, according to a study published in the journal Heart. People who reported poor social relationships had a 29 percent higher risk of coronary disease and a 32 percent higher risk of stroke than those with robust friendships. Why? Researchers believe loneliness increases chronic stress, a risk factor for heart disease.

How to fix it: Make it part of your routine to hit the gym, develop hobbies, take classes, call or Skype with friends or family. If you're feeling socially isolated or depressed, talk to your doctor about the best course of action. You might benefit from talk therapy too.

Carrying Around Extra Weight

Doctor measuring obese man waist body fat. Obesity and weight loss

Excess poundage weighs on your heart the most. Research shows that overweight people who achieve even modest weight loss (5 to 10 percent of total body weight) reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Know your healthy weight range. Eating a plant-heavy diet, reducing your consumption of empty calories and processed foods, and being more active are three of the easiest ways to get there. Don't undertake a trendy diet like Keto without talking to your doctor.

Not Having Enough Sex

Couple sleeping

This one's easy. A review of research published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that having sex once a month or less increases your risk of cardiovascular disease. Although erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an indicator of heart disease, this review found an association between low sexual activity and heart disease independent of ED.

How to fix it: Get down to it. (Unfortunately, it's not clear from the study if masturbation had beneficial effects, but it couldn't hurt.)

Not Eating Enough Omega-3s…

raw salmon on cutting board

Foods high in omega-3s are great for our heart. This type of unsaturated fatty acid may reduce inflammation throughout the body, decrease triglycerides, lower blood pressure and decrease heart disease risk, the Mayo Clinic says.

How to fix it: Eat whole-food sources of omega-3s like lean fish, grass-fed beef, walnuts and omega-3 eggs. The National Institutes of Health recommends women get 1,100mg and men have 1,600mg of omega-3s daily. Don't take a shortcut by popping supplements; research indicates they may be ineffective.

… And Eating Too Many Omega-6s

Pouring vegetable oil into skillet on stove

Be on the lookout for omega-3's cousin. Consuming too many omega-6s can raise your risk of heart disease. Although this polyunsaturated fatty acid is essential for health, most Americans eat too much. Scientists believe an excess of omega-3s can trigger inflammation throughout the body, which is bad for your heart. They're most commonly found in vegetable and corn oils, mayonnaise and salad dressings.

How to fix it: Experts say vegetable and seed oils are the biggest sources of omega-6s in the American diet. Cook with heart-healthy olive oil instead.

You Have Uncontrolled Diabetes

Midsection of young woman using glucometer to check blood sugar level at home

The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases dramatically over age 40, so much that the American Diabetes Association recommends a regular diabetes screening for all adults over 45. Diabetes causes sugars to build up in the blood; over time, that damages arteries and can lead to cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Get screened during your annual physical. If you're on medication for your diabetes, make sure you're compliant with dosages and monitoring.

Smoking

A close up image of an open package of cigarettes.

Cigarette smoking is the No. 1 preventable cause of death, according to the Cleveland Clinic. And lung cancer isn't the only major threat — toxins in cigarette smoke damage the lining of your arteries, causing them to thicken, while reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood. That spikes your risk of a heart attack.

How to fix it: Quit smoking ASAP; see your doctor for help. (It's never too late: Even people who quit smoking between the ages of 65 to 69 can add one to four years to their lives, the Cleveland Clinic says.) And if you don't smoke, this is not a golden-years habit you want to pick up.

A Sedentary Desk Job

tired woman lying down on desk at work

A 2017 study at the University of Warwick found that workers with desk jobs had bigger waists and a higher risk of heart disease than those with more active jobs. What's more, workers' bad (LDL) cholesterol increased and good (HDL) cholesterol decreased with each hour beyond five hours of sitting a day.

How to fix it: If you work a desk job, converting to a treadmill desk might be a bit hardcore, but you should stand and move around as much as possible during the day.

Ignoring Your Family History

Older couple laughing

According to research published in the journal Circulation, men with a family history of heart disease had nearly a 50 percent increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems. The National Institutes of Health calls that family history a primary risk for heart disease. Are you doomed? No. But it's all the more reason to prioritize heart health.

How to fix it: Make sure your doctor knows about your family history and ask if any additional screening tests would be a good idea. "Your family medical history is a key, but complex, risk factor for heart disease," said Dr. Pradeep Natarajan, a cardiologist with Massachusetts General Hospital, in Harvard Men's Health Watch. "The risk factor will always be there, but the longer you live without developing heart disease with healthy behaviors, the smaller its effect."

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

Eating Ultra-Processed Food

Sausage links

We know that one key to heart health is to eat more whole foods and less processed junk, but experts have pinpointed a new enemy: What they call "ultra-processed food." Two May 2019 studies published in The BMJ link highly processed food with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and an increased risk of early death. What's "ultra-processed"? The researchers listed "sausages, mayonnaise, potato chips, pizza, cookies, chocolates and candies, artificially sweetened beverages and whisky, gin and rum." In other words, stuff you know you should be avoiding anyway. In other studies, highly processed food consumption has been correlated with higher risks of obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol — all risk factors for a heart attack.

How to fix it: Limit the proportion of ultra-processed food you eat, and increase unprocessed and minimally processed foods—like any food recommended by Body Network.

Eating Too Much Salt

hands adding salt to pasta water

Studies show that most Americans consume about 3,400mg of sodium daily — way over the recommended 2,300mg (which amounts to about one teaspoon of salt). High salt intake is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, which in turn ups your chance of having a heart attack.

How to fix it: Not only should you put down the salt shaker (according to the American Heart Association, ¼ teaspoon of salt is 575mg of sodium) but limit your consumption of fast food and processed foods, which tend to come loaded with sodium. They have so much, in fact, that if you eat them frequently, you might be over a healthy limit even if you don't add salt to your meals.

Stressing Out All The Time

tired businessman with eyeglasses and laptop computer rubbing eyes at office

We all have stress, and no one wants to be called a snowflake, but science is clear that chronic stress is really bad for your body. "When stress is excessive, it can contribute to everything from high blood pressure, also called hypertension, to asthma to ulcers to irritable bowel syndrome," said Ernesto L. Schiffrin, M.D., Ph.D., professor in the Department of Medicine at McGill University. Hypertension is bad for your heart — and stress leads people to engage in other unhealthy behaviors that can tax your ticker, including drinking too much alcohol and stress-eating.

How to fix it: Exercising, not smoking, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight are good ways to deal with stress, said Schiffrin.

Snoring

Woman (age 30) suffers from her male partner (age 40) snoring in bed

If you snore, it might be more than a nuisance for your bedmate. Snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, during which breathing can stop for as long as a minute before your brain wakes you up to resume breathing. Sleep apnea has been associated with high blood pressure and other health problems. According to the National Sleep Foundation, snoring itself is associated with a risk of cardiovascular disease. People who snore have a higher chance of experiencing a thickening in the carotid artery, which doctors think might be caused by the vibrations of snoring.

How to fix it: If you snore or your partner points out your snoring, talk to your doctor—if not for yourself, then for your bedmate.

Not Getting Enough Sleep

A tired sleepless woman with the pillow over her head

Americans are chronically sleep deprived, and not only does it make us a real piece of work in the mornings, it's bad for heart health. According to a study done by the CDC, people who slept less than 7 hours a night reported having more heart attacks — along with obesity, Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, three conditions that lead to heart disease.

How to fix it: For optimum health and to lower your heart attack risk, get seven to nine hours of shut-eye a night.

Living in Lower Altitude Places

Condos located right off the lake

If you want to avoid experiencing a heart attack, move to the mountains! One 2017 study published in the journal Frontiers in Physiology found that those who lived in lower-altitude places had an increased risk of metabolic syndrome—one of the risk factors for heart disease and heart attacks.

How to fix it: If you do live in a lower altitude setting, you might not have the option of moving. However, you should be more cognizant of the other heart attack risk factors and focus on keeping them to a minimum.

Not Knowing What is in Your Supplements

Male doctor advising mature couple about nutritional supplements and using a computer during the appointment.

According to Christina Murray, MD, Medical Director OU Medicine Cardiology, Pulmonary & Vascular Medicine, taking bad nutritional supplements could impact your heart health in a major way. “There is a risk of chemicals, extra caffeine and other products that may cause drug interactions that could put you at extra risk for a heart attack,” she points out.

How to fix it: Before taking any nutritional supplement, always run it by your doctor.

Not Battling Inflammation

Moody young woman holding her neck

Although inflammation is not proven to cause cardiovascular disease, it is common for heart disease and stroke patients and is believed to be a sign of atherogenic response, according to the American Heart Association. “This irritation can increase one’s risk of developing plaques in arteries (most importantly in the heart) and can cause a downstream effect of triggering blood clots leading to myocardial infarctions aka heart attacks,” explains Alexandra Kreps, MD, at Tru Whole Care, who says sustained levels of inflammation can irritate blood vessels. “A marker in the blood called hs-CRP can measure inflammation and is correlated with one’s risk of heart attack/heart disease in the future. This can be checked by your primary care doctor or cardiologist.”

How to fix it: Dr. Kreps offers a few tips for reducing inflammation. First, maintain an anti-inflammatory diet (such as more fruits and vegetables containing omega 3 or the Mediterranean diet). Also, if you are obese, you should work on losing weight. Controlling blood sugar, exercise, and managing stress levels are other ways to battle inflammation.

Not Getting the Right Vitamins

woman taking vitamins

A major risk factor for heart attacks is not getting enough magnesium and B vitamins, explains Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, integrative physician and author of the best-selling From Fatigued to Fantastic!. “Food processing has cut our magnesium intake by 50%, and this has been shown to increase abnormal heart rhythms and diabetes, along with increasing other risk factors,” he explains. Optimal levels of B vitamins are also essential for bringing down elevated homocysteine levels.

How to fix it: Since it can be difficult to get enough of these from the American diet, he suggests taking special multivitamins that contain optimal levels.

Taking Over-the-Counter and Prescription Arthritis Medications

vitamins in store

Certain medications can make you more prone to heart attacks, says Dr. Teitelbaum. “Called NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen), these are associated with a 35% increased risk of heart attack and stroke, causing 35,000 excess heart attacks yearly in the US,” he points out.

How to fix it: A healthy alternative? Dr. Teitelbaum suggests “a unique highly absorbed curcumin plus Boswellia combination called Curamin, that has been shown to be more effective than NSAIDs in three studies but result in ‘side benefits’ instead of side effects.” He claims that Glucosamine plus chondroitin has been shown to be equally effective as Celebrex, and actually decreases heart attack and death risk.

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Living in Chronic Pain

Suffering From Abdominal Pain Touching Aching Stomach Lying On Couch At Home

Don’t try and suffer through your pain. “Chronic pain is still more dangerous than the medications,” Dr. Teitelbaum points out. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic pain can lead to a chronic stress reaction that causes an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk for conditions such as heart disease.

How to fix it: Speak with your physician and figure out an effective treatment plan for your chronic pain.

Excessive Stimulant Use

Energy drinks

Stimulants increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which are triggers for those already at risk of heart attacks, points out Thanu Jey, DC, Clinic Director at Yorkville Sports Medicine Clinic. “Many of us use caffeine which is generally safe in moderate amounts, but stronger stimulants such as cocaine and amphetamines multiply the effects on the heart and substantially increase your risk,” he explains.

How to fix it: There are a million reasons you should avoid stimulant drugs, and heart attacks are just one of them. “If you are an at-risk individual, consult your doctor/cardiologist about caffeine and other stimulants,” urges Dr. Jey.

Uncontrolled Anger

angry woman gesturing with hands

Similar to stress, anger can increase your risk of a heart attack as it increases your heart rate and blood pressure. “These can push you towards an episode, especially if you're already at risk,” Dr. Jey points out. One 2015 study published in the European Heart Journal found that intense anger episodes increased the likelihood of acute heart occlusion, which obstructs blood flow to the heart.

How to fix it: “Understanding the effect anger can have on your physiological system is important in reducing this risk,” Dr. Jey explains. In order to control your anger, speak with your medical expert. There are a variety of methods ranging from medications to therapy, that can help.

Poor Dental Hygiene

Asian Senior woman feeling tooth pain

Bad dental hygiene can be responsible for a slew of medical problems, including heart health. A 2016 study published in the BMJ Postgraduate Medical Journal found that oral bacteria can increase your risk of atherosclerosis—aka hardening and narrowing of the arteries—increasing your likelihood of heart disease.

How to fix it: Make dental health a priority!

Skipping Your Morning Meal

woman morning coffee skipping breakfast rush

Maintaining a healthy diet is an important part of heart health. While many people are fans of intermittent fasting, you might want to think twice before skipping your morning meal. According to one review of research published in the journal Circulation in 2013, there is a definite link between eating breakfast and a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

How to fix it: Even if you have to eat on the go, make sure to start your morning with a healthy breakfast.

Working at Night

Businessman working overtime in office.

While spending a late night or two at the office probably isn’t going to give you a heart attack, according to a 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, working consistent long, late night shifts are going to increase your chances of heart disease.

How to fix it: While you shouldn’t go out and quit your job, if you fall into this category you should think about reducing all your other risk factors.

Driving Everywhere

McDonald's employee handing customer food through the drive thru window

Traffic can be incredibly stressful. But, in addition to the stress-related heart health implications of driving a car, there is another component of driving you should consider. Riding your bike or walking instead of driving can reduce your heart attack risk, according to a study published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine. Why? Obesity is directly related to heart health.

How to fix it: If you have an option, you should consider walking or riding instead of hopping in the car.

Having a Bad Boss

bad-tempered caucasian business executive yelling at two asian subordinates in office

Because stress is a huge risk factor for heart disease and heart attacks, working in a stressful environment—including under the leadership of a bad boss—can really up your chances of cardiac arrest. In fact, one Swedish study published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine confirmed this, finding that people with uncommunicative, secretive, inconsiderate, and incompetent bosses are 60 percent more likely to have a heart attack.

How to fix it: If you are constantly experiencing stress at work, you should seriously think long and hard about whether the situation is healthy and whether it is worth sacrificing your health over. If finding a new job isn’t an option, you should take measures to reduce work stress—which could include meditation or exercise.

Having Lots of Children

Overwhelmed exhausted woman feeling tired of cleaning in her messy house sitting on the floor with toys and laundry lying around her

We all know children are stressful, but science has actually confirmed that women who birth more babies are more likely to have a heart attack. According to a 2018 review of data in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology the more times a person gives birth, the greater their risk of heart disease is.

How to fix it: If you do want a big family, make sure to keep all your other risk factors at a minimum—and consider hiring a nanny!

Spending Too Much Time Indoors

sad woman near window thinking

Being out in nature can improve your health in a number of ways, including your heart. According to a 2015 review of research published in Current Epidemiology Reports, exposing yourself to nature will improve both your mental and cardiovascular health. Why? According to the study, "higher levels of greenness were associated with lower risk of CVD, ischemic heart disease, and stroke mortality."

How to fix it: Make sure to get outside whenever you can.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Being Sick With the Flu

sick ill man tired laying coach coach flu

Getting the flu sucks in so many ways. But you might not know it can seriously impact your heart health. According to a 2018 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, during those first seven days after influenza has been confirmed, you are much more prone to having a heart attack due to your compromised immune system.

How to fix it: Get the flu shot! It will not only reduce your chances of getting sick, but keep your downtime to a minimum.

Not Having Sex Regularly

Unhappy couple not speaking to each other on bed at home in the bedroom

Sex does a body—and heart—good. According to a review of research published in the American Journal of Cardiology being sexually active by doing the deed more than once a month, will decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Stay sexually active! And keep it safe.

Untreated Depression

selective focus of depressed african american man sitting with bowed head

Depression can negatively impact your health in so many ways, your heart included. 2014 research published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that treating depression early can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by half.

How to fix it: Don’t let your depression go untreated. Speak to a mental health expert ASAP about treatment options.

Not Properly Hydrating

Businesswoman in modern, corporate office, pouring water to glass

Drink up—water that is! Research published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that even minor dehydration can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease—even in healthy young adults.

How to fix it: Make sure to stay hydrated.

Getting a Divorce

Husband and wife are signing divorce settlement

Divorces can be incredibly stressful, and may even put you at risk for a heart attack. A 2017 study published in Cardiology Research and Practice found that women who went through a divorce were more prone to heart conditions, including heart attack. Those who went through multiple divorces were at an even higher risk.

How to fix it: Obviously, staying in an unhealthy marriage isn’t the solution. However, marrying the right person and keeping your marriage as healthy as possible are things that are going to help your heart health.

RELATED: Benchmark Your Progress with Our Lean Body Mass Calculator

Financial Stress

female sitting at kitchen table with laptop, dealing with financial stress

Stressing out about money can take a serious toll on your heart health. One study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that those experiencing financial stress were 13 times more likely to suffer from a heart attack.

How to fix it: Try and keep your finances as stable as possible.

Living Near Fast Food

fast food restaurant signs

The more convenient it is to indulge in greasy food from McDonald’s or Taco Bell, the more likely you are to suffer a heart attack. A Dutch study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that adults living within a half-mile of fast food outlets were more likely to develop heart disease than those living further away.

How to fix it: If you do live near fast food joints, resist the urge to become a regular.

Eating Out

Guy eating at fast-food restaurant

With our busy lifestyles it can be tempting to eat the majority of meals out at restaurants. However, you could be putting your heart health at risk. According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, those who engaged in “social-business” eating were over a third more likely to have dangerous plaque build-up in their arteries, putting them at increased risk for heart attack and heart disease.

How to fix it: Consider following a heart-healthy diet, such as the expert-endorsed Mediterranean Diet. When you do eat out, make healthier choices.

Not Being a Pet Owner

Service dog

Owning a pet—preferably a dog—can seriously lower your chances of heart disease. The American Heart Association points to numerous studies supporting pet ownership as an effective strategy for keeping heart attacks at bay. Why? Having Fido around has been found to increase fitness levels, relieve stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and boost overall happiness and well-being. Also, pets provide social support.

How to fix it: If you aren’t in a place to become a pet owner, consider spending time with other people’s pets in order to reap some of their heart-healthy benefits.

Too Much Screen Time

Woman Wearing Pajamas Watching TV in her Room

Spending too much time glued to a phone, television, or tablet has been directly linked to obesity—one of the biggest risk factors of heart disease.

How to fix it: Swap your screen time for other healthier and more active habits. Socially interacting with others, playing a sport, picking up a new hobby, or just taking a walk are all things that will improve your health in a variety of ways, including reducing your risk of a heart attack.

More For You

Close-up photo of a brunette woman who is sitting on a couch with her eyes closed and her left hand touching her heart area.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

You pour it out, wear it on your sleeve, and love people from the bottom of it. But do you take care—we mean, proper care—of your heart?


For decades, heart disease has been the No. 1 killer of Americans.

The good news: You can make quick, easy changes to your lifestyle to cut your risk and add years to your life, and it's never too late. Here are the top 50 things you're probably doing that put you in danger—from the Body Network to you, with all our heart.

Not Getting Your Blood Pressure Checked

Woman Checking Blood Pressure At Home

Is your blood pressure in a healthy range? Are you sure? It might be higher than you think. In 2018, the American Heart Association lowered the guidelines for healthy blood pressure from 140/90 (and 150/80 for those older than 65) to 130/80 for all adults. According to Harvard Medical School, that means 70 to 79 percent of men over 55 technically have hypertension. Over time, that can weaken the walls of blood vessels, increasing your risk of stroke, heart attack and dementia.

How to fix it: To lower your risk, get your blood pressure checked soon — and regularly. Follow a heart-healthy diet, lose weight, and stay active. Read on to discover the best foods to eat.

Not Knowing Your Cholesterol Level

Cholesterol test

As we age, the body produces more cholesterol, which can build up in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. In women, menopause causes LDL ("bad") cholesterol to rise and HDL ("good") to drop. Experts advise getting your cholesterol checked every five years, but older adults may need it done more frequently. Your total cholesterol level should be less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), with an LDL level of less than 100 mg/dL and an HDL level of 60 mg/dL or higher.

How to fix it: To keep your levels in a healthy range, eat a diet low in saturated fat and trans fats, get exercise and maintain an ideal weight.

Eating Too Much Saturated Fat

Woman putting raw meat in refrigerator

There's been some confusion around fats and cholesterol and heart health in recent years, but the latest science is this: According to the American Heart Association, eating foods high in saturated fat raises LDL cholesterol in your blood, which increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. What foods are high in sat fat? Red meat, chicken with skin, butter and cheese.

How to fix it: For good heart health, the AHA recommends that you consume only 13 grams of saturated fat per day. (For context, a 1 oz slice of Swiss cheese contains 5 grams of saturated fat. A McDonald's Quarter Pounder With Cheese contains exactly 13 grams.) Focus your diet on lean protein and as many colorful fruits and vegetables as possible.

Not Getting Enough Exercise

group of women doing stretching exercises before intensive workout in spacious fitness studio

Lace up those old Reebok Pumps. The AHA's weekly exercise guidelines for heart health haven't changed, even though only about 20 percent of us follow them: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, plus muscle-strengthening exercise two times a week.

How to fix it: Some examples of moderate-intensity exercise are brisk walking, dancing, or gardening; vigorous exercise is running, hiking, or swimming. If you think you can't make 150 minutes, get moving anyway. Any amount of exercise is better for your heart than none.

Drinking Sugary Drinks

Man is dangerously eating junk food and cold drink while driving his car

It's no secret that too many of us are drinking too many of our daily calories. And what's bad for your waistline is bad for your heart. A March 2019 study published in the journal Circulation found that drinking sugary drinks was associated with an increased risk of death, particularly from cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Switch out that soda for water or seltzer without artificial sweeteners. (Read on to find out why diet soda isn't the answer.) "Drinking water in place of sugary drinks is a healthy choice that could contribute to longevity," says Vasanti Malik, the study's lead author and a research scientist at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Eating Too Much Sugar, Period

Sugar on background

Consuming too much added sugar — the sugar that manufacturers add to foods to sweeten them or extend their shelf life — won't just blow your pants budget; it's a major risk factor for heart disease. According to the National Cancer Institute, adult men consume 24 teaspoons of sugar a day, the equivalent of 384 calories! "The effects of added sugar intake — higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease — are all linked to an increased risk for heart attack and stroke," says Dr. Frank Hu, professor of nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

How to fix it: The American Heart Association advises that adults consume no more than 150 calories (about 9 teaspoons, or 36 grams) of added sugar daily. That's about the amount in a 12-ounce can of soda. To learn how to reduce your sugar cravings and lose a pound a week, check out the 14-day plan Zero Sugar Diet!

Drinking Too Much Alcohol

Two glasses of whiskey, one being filled from a bottle

Alcohol's effects on your liver and your beer gut are well-documented, but excessive drinking takes a toll on your heart, too. "Too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and triglycerides, which can increase your risk of heart disease," says Dr. Sarin Seema of EHE Health.

How to fix it: How much is too much? Seema recommends that women should have no more than one drink a day, and men should say when at two.

You Haven't Asked Your Doctor About Heart Testing

General practitioner and her aged patient talking about heart diseases

Little-known fact: Standard heart tests at your annual physical — and ECG and, in some cases, a stress test — aren't good at detecting clogged arteries until they're 70 percent blocked. You could ace both tests and still be on your way to a heart attack. Luckily, more advanced imaging and blood tests are available, along with genetic screening, to uncover arterial issues before they lead to heart disease.

How to fix it: Talk to your doctor about your personal and family health history to determine if it's time for a more extensive peek under your hood.

Drinking Diet Soda

Woman cracks open can sod

Studies show that people who drink diet sodas and other artificially sweetened beverages have a higher risk of metabolic syndrome. That's when your body has trouble processing insulin, which is a precursor to Type 2 diabetes. And that's a heart attack risk.

How to fix it: Swap out sugary beverages and diet drinks with classic H20, seltzers or homemade spa water. There are some excellent seltzer options that are completely unsweetened (LaCroix or Polar), are infused with tea (Sound) or have low amounts of natural sugar from a dash of fruit (Spindrift). Avoid any with artificial sweeteners.

You Have Untreated A-Fib

ekg ecg heart test with stethoscope

One in four Americans over the age of 40 could develop a type of irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation (AF or A-Fib). According to the Harvard Health Letter, because AF reduces the heart's pumping efficiency — by anywhere from 10 to 30 percent — it can lead to heart failure, angina and stroke.

How to fix it: If you're experiencing an irregular heartbeat — symptoms can include a fluttering in your chest, or you feel like your heartbeat is unusually rapid or slow — talk to your doctor, who can run basic tests like an ECG or refer you to a cardiologist, who may prescribe medication or other therapies.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Oversleeping

African American man fast asleep

The principle "too much of a good thing" applies to one of the best things of all: Sleep, particularly as we age. A review of research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that getting more than eight hours of shut-eye can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Nine hours comes with a moderate risk — and 11 hours was associated with a nearly 44 percent increase! (Un-fun fact: Oversleeping also increases your risk for dementia.)

How to fix it: The latest recommendation from sleep experts, including the National Sleep Foundation, is that adults should get seven to nine hours of sleep a night — no more, no less.

You're Socially Isolated

sad frustrated man with stubble in jeans, shirt holding fingers between close eyes using smart phone

It turns out the Lonely Hearts Club is a literal thing — and not a group you want to join. Feelings of loneliness and social isolation can increase a person's risk of having a heart attack, according to a study published in the journal Heart. People who reported poor social relationships had a 29 percent higher risk of coronary disease and a 32 percent higher risk of stroke than those with robust friendships. Why? Researchers believe loneliness increases chronic stress, a risk factor for heart disease.

How to fix it: Make it part of your routine to hit the gym, develop hobbies, take classes, call or Skype with friends or family. If you're feeling socially isolated or depressed, talk to your doctor about the best course of action. You might benefit from talk therapy too.

Carrying Around Extra Weight

Doctor measuring obese man waist body fat. Obesity and weight loss

Excess poundage weighs on your heart the most. Research shows that overweight people who achieve even modest weight loss (5 to 10 percent of total body weight) reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Know your healthy weight range. Eating a plant-heavy diet, reducing your consumption of empty calories and processed foods, and being more active are three of the easiest ways to get there. Don't undertake a trendy diet like Keto without talking to your doctor.

Not Having Enough Sex

Couple sleeping

This one's easy. A review of research published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that having sex once a month or less increases your risk of cardiovascular disease. Although erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an indicator of heart disease, this review found an association between low sexual activity and heart disease independent of ED.

How to fix it: Get down to it. (Unfortunately, it's not clear from the study if masturbation had beneficial effects, but it couldn't hurt.)

Not Eating Enough Omega-3s…

raw salmon on cutting board

Foods high in omega-3s are great for our heart. This type of unsaturated fatty acid may reduce inflammation throughout the body, decrease triglycerides, lower blood pressure and decrease heart disease risk, the Mayo Clinic says.

How to fix it: Eat whole-food sources of omega-3s like lean fish, grass-fed beef, walnuts and omega-3 eggs. The National Institutes of Health recommends women get 1,100mg and men have 1,600mg of omega-3s daily. Don't take a shortcut by popping supplements; research indicates they may be ineffective.

… And Eating Too Many Omega-6s

Pouring vegetable oil into skillet on stove

Be on the lookout for omega-3's cousin. Consuming too many omega-6s can raise your risk of heart disease. Although this polyunsaturated fatty acid is essential for health, most Americans eat too much. Scientists believe an excess of omega-3s can trigger inflammation throughout the body, which is bad for your heart. They're most commonly found in vegetable and corn oils, mayonnaise and salad dressings.

How to fix it: Experts say vegetable and seed oils are the biggest sources of omega-6s in the American diet. Cook with heart-healthy olive oil instead.

You Have Uncontrolled Diabetes

Midsection of young woman using glucometer to check blood sugar level at home

The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases dramatically over age 40, so much that the American Diabetes Association recommends a regular diabetes screening for all adults over 45. Diabetes causes sugars to build up in the blood; over time, that damages arteries and can lead to cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Get screened during your annual physical. If you're on medication for your diabetes, make sure you're compliant with dosages and monitoring.

Smoking

A close up image of an open package of cigarettes.

Cigarette smoking is the No. 1 preventable cause of death, according to the Cleveland Clinic. And lung cancer isn't the only major threat — toxins in cigarette smoke damage the lining of your arteries, causing them to thicken, while reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood. That spikes your risk of a heart attack.

How to fix it: Quit smoking ASAP; see your doctor for help. (It's never too late: Even people who quit smoking between the ages of 65 to 69 can add one to four years to their lives, the Cleveland Clinic says.) And if you don't smoke, this is not a golden-years habit you want to pick up.

A Sedentary Desk Job

tired woman lying down on desk at work

A 2017 study at the University of Warwick found that workers with desk jobs had bigger waists and a higher risk of heart disease than those with more active jobs. What's more, workers' bad (LDL) cholesterol increased and good (HDL) cholesterol decreased with each hour beyond five hours of sitting a day.

How to fix it: If you work a desk job, converting to a treadmill desk might be a bit hardcore, but you should stand and move around as much as possible during the day.

Ignoring Your Family History

Older couple laughing

According to research published in the journal Circulation, men with a family history of heart disease had nearly a 50 percent increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems. The National Institutes of Health calls that family history a primary risk for heart disease. Are you doomed? No. But it's all the more reason to prioritize heart health.

How to fix it: Make sure your doctor knows about your family history and ask if any additional screening tests would be a good idea. "Your family medical history is a key, but complex, risk factor for heart disease," said Dr. Pradeep Natarajan, a cardiologist with Massachusetts General Hospital, in Harvard Men's Health Watch. "The risk factor will always be there, but the longer you live without developing heart disease with healthy behaviors, the smaller its effect."

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

Eating Ultra-Processed Food

Sausage links

We know that one key to heart health is to eat more whole foods and less processed junk, but experts have pinpointed a new enemy: What they call "ultra-processed food." Two May 2019 studies published in The BMJ link highly processed food with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and an increased risk of early death. What's "ultra-processed"? The researchers listed "sausages, mayonnaise, potato chips, pizza, cookies, chocolates and candies, artificially sweetened beverages and whisky, gin and rum." In other words, stuff you know you should be avoiding anyway. In other studies, highly processed food consumption has been correlated with higher risks of obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol — all risk factors for a heart attack.

How to fix it: Limit the proportion of ultra-processed food you eat, and increase unprocessed and minimally processed foods—like any food recommended by Body Network.

Eating Too Much Salt

hands adding salt to pasta water

Studies show that most Americans consume about 3,400mg of sodium daily — way over the recommended 2,300mg (which amounts to about one teaspoon of salt). High salt intake is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, which in turn ups your chance of having a heart attack.

How to fix it: Not only should you put down the salt shaker (according to the American Heart Association, ¼ teaspoon of salt is 575mg of sodium) but limit your consumption of fast food and processed foods, which tend to come loaded with sodium. They have so much, in fact, that if you eat them frequently, you might be over a healthy limit even if you don't add salt to your meals.

Stressing Out All The Time

tired businessman with eyeglasses and laptop computer rubbing eyes at office

We all have stress, and no one wants to be called a snowflake, but science is clear that chronic stress is really bad for your body. "When stress is excessive, it can contribute to everything from high blood pressure, also called hypertension, to asthma to ulcers to irritable bowel syndrome," said Ernesto L. Schiffrin, M.D., Ph.D., professor in the Department of Medicine at McGill University. Hypertension is bad for your heart — and stress leads people to engage in other unhealthy behaviors that can tax your ticker, including drinking too much alcohol and stress-eating.

How to fix it: Exercising, not smoking, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight are good ways to deal with stress, said Schiffrin.

Snoring

Woman (age 30) suffers from her male partner (age 40) snoring in bed

If you snore, it might be more than a nuisance for your bedmate. Snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, during which breathing can stop for as long as a minute before your brain wakes you up to resume breathing. Sleep apnea has been associated with high blood pressure and other health problems. According to the National Sleep Foundation, snoring itself is associated with a risk of cardiovascular disease. People who snore have a higher chance of experiencing a thickening in the carotid artery, which doctors think might be caused by the vibrations of snoring.

How to fix it: If you snore or your partner points out your snoring, talk to your doctor—if not for yourself, then for your bedmate.

Not Getting Enough Sleep

A tired sleepless woman with the pillow over her head

Americans are chronically sleep deprived, and not only does it make us a real piece of work in the mornings, it's bad for heart health. According to a study done by the CDC, people who slept less than 7 hours a night reported having more heart attacks — along with obesity, Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, three conditions that lead to heart disease.

How to fix it: For optimum health and to lower your heart attack risk, get seven to nine hours of shut-eye a night.

Living in Lower Altitude Places

Condos located right off the lake

If you want to avoid experiencing a heart attack, move to the mountains! One 2017 study published in the journal Frontiers in Physiology found that those who lived in lower-altitude places had an increased risk of metabolic syndrome—one of the risk factors for heart disease and heart attacks.

How to fix it: If you do live in a lower altitude setting, you might not have the option of moving. However, you should be more cognizant of the other heart attack risk factors and focus on keeping them to a minimum.

Not Knowing What is in Your Supplements

Male doctor advising mature couple about nutritional supplements and using a computer during the appointment.

According to Christina Murray, MD, Medical Director OU Medicine Cardiology, Pulmonary & Vascular Medicine, taking bad nutritional supplements could impact your heart health in a major way. “There is a risk of chemicals, extra caffeine and other products that may cause drug interactions that could put you at extra risk for a heart attack,” she points out.

How to fix it: Before taking any nutritional supplement, always run it by your doctor.

Not Battling Inflammation

Moody young woman holding her neck

Although inflammation is not proven to cause cardiovascular disease, it is common for heart disease and stroke patients and is believed to be a sign of atherogenic response, according to the American Heart Association. “This irritation can increase one’s risk of developing plaques in arteries (most importantly in the heart) and can cause a downstream effect of triggering blood clots leading to myocardial infarctions aka heart attacks,” explains Alexandra Kreps, MD, at Tru Whole Care, who says sustained levels of inflammation can irritate blood vessels. “A marker in the blood called hs-CRP can measure inflammation and is correlated with one’s risk of heart attack/heart disease in the future. This can be checked by your primary care doctor or cardiologist.”

How to fix it: Dr. Kreps offers a few tips for reducing inflammation. First, maintain an anti-inflammatory diet (such as more fruits and vegetables containing omega 3 or the Mediterranean diet). Also, if you are obese, you should work on losing weight. Controlling blood sugar, exercise, and managing stress levels are other ways to battle inflammation.

Not Getting the Right Vitamins

woman taking vitamins

A major risk factor for heart attacks is not getting enough magnesium and B vitamins, explains Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, integrative physician and author of the best-selling From Fatigued to Fantastic!. “Food processing has cut our magnesium intake by 50%, and this has been shown to increase abnormal heart rhythms and diabetes, along with increasing other risk factors,” he explains. Optimal levels of B vitamins are also essential for bringing down elevated homocysteine levels.

How to fix it: Since it can be difficult to get enough of these from the American diet, he suggests taking special multivitamins that contain optimal levels.

Taking Over-the-Counter and Prescription Arthritis Medications

vitamins in store

Certain medications can make you more prone to heart attacks, says Dr. Teitelbaum. “Called NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen), these are associated with a 35% increased risk of heart attack and stroke, causing 35,000 excess heart attacks yearly in the US,” he points out.

How to fix it: A healthy alternative? Dr. Teitelbaum suggests “a unique highly absorbed curcumin plus Boswellia combination called Curamin, that has been shown to be more effective than NSAIDs in three studies but result in ‘side benefits’ instead of side effects.” He claims that Glucosamine plus chondroitin has been shown to be equally effective as Celebrex, and actually decreases heart attack and death risk.

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Fit as a Pear Body Type

Living in Chronic Pain

Suffering From Abdominal Pain Touching Aching Stomach Lying On Couch At Home

Don’t try and suffer through your pain. “Chronic pain is still more dangerous than the medications,” Dr. Teitelbaum points out. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic pain can lead to a chronic stress reaction that causes an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk for conditions such as heart disease.

How to fix it: Speak with your physician and figure out an effective treatment plan for your chronic pain.

Excessive Stimulant Use

Energy drinks

Stimulants increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which are triggers for those already at risk of heart attacks, points out Thanu Jey, DC, Clinic Director at Yorkville Sports Medicine Clinic. “Many of us use caffeine which is generally safe in moderate amounts, but stronger stimulants such as cocaine and amphetamines multiply the effects on the heart and substantially increase your risk,” he explains.

How to fix it: There are a million reasons you should avoid stimulant drugs, and heart attacks are just one of them. “If you are an at-risk individual, consult your doctor/cardiologist about caffeine and other stimulants,” urges Dr. Jey.

Uncontrolled Anger

angry woman gesturing with hands

Similar to stress, anger can increase your risk of a heart attack as it increases your heart rate and blood pressure. “These can push you towards an episode, especially if you're already at risk,” Dr. Jey points out. One 2015 study published in the European Heart Journal found that intense anger episodes increased the likelihood of acute heart occlusion, which obstructs blood flow to the heart.

How to fix it: “Understanding the effect anger can have on your physiological system is important in reducing this risk,” Dr. Jey explains. In order to control your anger, speak with your medical expert. There are a variety of methods ranging from medications to therapy, that can help.

Poor Dental Hygiene

Asian Senior woman feeling tooth pain

Bad dental hygiene can be responsible for a slew of medical problems, including heart health. A 2016 study published in the BMJ Postgraduate Medical Journal found that oral bacteria can increase your risk of atherosclerosis—aka hardening and narrowing of the arteries—increasing your likelihood of heart disease.

How to fix it: Make dental health a priority!

Skipping Your Morning Meal

woman morning coffee skipping breakfast rush

Maintaining a healthy diet is an important part of heart health. While many people are fans of intermittent fasting, you might want to think twice before skipping your morning meal. According to one review of research published in the journal Circulation in 2013, there is a definite link between eating breakfast and a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

How to fix it: Even if you have to eat on the go, make sure to start your morning with a healthy breakfast.

Working at Night

Businessman working overtime in office.

While spending a late night or two at the office probably isn’t going to give you a heart attack, according to a 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, working consistent long, late night shifts are going to increase your chances of heart disease.

How to fix it: While you shouldn’t go out and quit your job, if you fall into this category you should think about reducing all your other risk factors.

Driving Everywhere

McDonald's employee handing customer food through the drive thru window

Traffic can be incredibly stressful. But, in addition to the stress-related heart health implications of driving a car, there is another component of driving you should consider. Riding your bike or walking instead of driving can reduce your heart attack risk, according to a study published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine. Why? Obesity is directly related to heart health.

How to fix it: If you have an option, you should consider walking or riding instead of hopping in the car.

Having a Bad Boss

bad-tempered caucasian business executive yelling at two asian subordinates in office

Because stress is a huge risk factor for heart disease and heart attacks, working in a stressful environment—including under the leadership of a bad boss—can really up your chances of cardiac arrest. In fact, one Swedish study published in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine confirmed this, finding that people with uncommunicative, secretive, inconsiderate, and incompetent bosses are 60 percent more likely to have a heart attack.

How to fix it: If you are constantly experiencing stress at work, you should seriously think long and hard about whether the situation is healthy and whether it is worth sacrificing your health over. If finding a new job isn’t an option, you should take measures to reduce work stress—which could include meditation or exercise.

Having Lots of Children

Overwhelmed exhausted woman feeling tired of cleaning in her messy house sitting on the floor with toys and laundry lying around her

We all know children are stressful, but science has actually confirmed that women who birth more babies are more likely to have a heart attack. According to a 2018 review of data in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology the more times a person gives birth, the greater their risk of heart disease is.

How to fix it: If you do want a big family, make sure to keep all your other risk factors at a minimum—and consider hiring a nanny!

Spending Too Much Time Indoors

sad woman near window thinking

Being out in nature can improve your health in a number of ways, including your heart. According to a 2015 review of research published in Current Epidemiology Reports, exposing yourself to nature will improve both your mental and cardiovascular health. Why? According to the study, "higher levels of greenness were associated with lower risk of CVD, ischemic heart disease, and stroke mortality."

How to fix it: Make sure to get outside whenever you can.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Being Sick With the Flu

sick ill man tired laying coach coach flu

Getting the flu sucks in so many ways. But you might not know it can seriously impact your heart health. According to a 2018 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, during those first seven days after influenza has been confirmed, you are much more prone to having a heart attack due to your compromised immune system.

How to fix it: Get the flu shot! It will not only reduce your chances of getting sick, but keep your downtime to a minimum.

Not Having Sex Regularly

Unhappy couple not speaking to each other on bed at home in the bedroom

Sex does a body—and heart—good. According to a review of research published in the American Journal of Cardiology being sexually active by doing the deed more than once a month, will decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease.

How to fix it: Stay sexually active! And keep it safe.

Untreated Depression

selective focus of depressed african american man sitting with bowed head

Depression can negatively impact your health in so many ways, your heart included. 2014 research published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that treating depression early can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by half.

How to fix it: Don’t let your depression go untreated. Speak to a mental health expert ASAP about treatment options.

Not Properly Hydrating

Businesswoman in modern, corporate office, pouring water to glass

Drink up—water that is! Research published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that even minor dehydration can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease—even in healthy young adults.

How to fix it: Make sure to stay hydrated.

Getting a Divorce

Husband and wife are signing divorce settlement

Divorces can be incredibly stressful, and may even put you at risk for a heart attack. A 2017 study published in Cardiology Research and Practice found that women who went through a divorce were more prone to heart conditions, including heart attack. Those who went through multiple divorces were at an even higher risk.

How to fix it: Obviously, staying in an unhealthy marriage isn’t the solution. However, marrying the right person and keeping your marriage as healthy as possible are things that are going to help your heart health.

RELATED: Benchmark Your Progress with Our Lean Body Mass Calculator

Financial Stress

female sitting at kitchen table with laptop, dealing with financial stress

Stressing out about money can take a serious toll on your heart health. One study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that those experiencing financial stress were 13 times more likely to suffer from a heart attack.

How to fix it: Try and keep your finances as stable as possible.

Living Near Fast Food

fast food restaurant signs

The more convenient it is to indulge in greasy food from McDonald’s or Taco Bell, the more likely you are to suffer a heart attack. A Dutch study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that adults living within a half-mile of fast food outlets were more likely to develop heart disease than those living further away.

How to fix it: If you do live near fast food joints, resist the urge to become a regular.

Eating Out

Guy eating at fast-food restaurant

With our busy lifestyles it can be tempting to eat the majority of meals out at restaurants. However, you could be putting your heart health at risk. According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, those who engaged in “social-business” eating were over a third more likely to have dangerous plaque build-up in their arteries, putting them at increased risk for heart attack and heart disease.

How to fix it: Consider following a heart-healthy diet, such as the expert-endorsed Mediterranean Diet. When you do eat out, make healthier choices.

Not Being a Pet Owner

Service dog

Owning a pet—preferably a dog—can seriously lower your chances of heart disease. The American Heart Association points to numerous studies supporting pet ownership as an effective strategy for keeping heart attacks at bay. Why? Having Fido around has been found to increase fitness levels, relieve stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and boost overall happiness and well-being. Also, pets provide social support.

How to fix it: If you aren’t in a place to become a pet owner, consider spending time with other people’s pets in order to reap some of their heart-healthy benefits.

Too Much Screen Time

Woman Wearing Pajamas Watching TV in her Room

Spending too much time glued to a phone, television, or tablet has been directly linked to obesity—one of the biggest risk factors of heart disease.

How to fix it: Swap your screen time for other healthier and more active habits. Socially interacting with others, playing a sport, picking up a new hobby, or just taking a walk are all things that will improve your health in a variety of ways, including reducing your risk of a heart attack.

Serious mature middle age senior woman at home on couch holding mobile cellphone.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

As we age, our health needs change, and while our 50s are still young, noticeable differences in our bodies start happening. Taking care of our health is vital to living a quality life in later years, so all our bad habits really begin to take a toll. Body Network spoke with Sean Marchese, MS, RN, a registered nurse at The Mesothelioma Center with a background in oncology clinical trials and over 15 years of direct patient care experience, who shared four unhealthy things to stop doing after 55 and why.


What Changes Can People Expect After 55?

Happy 50s middle aged woman model touching face skin looking in mirror reflection. Smiling mature old lady pampering, healthy moisturized skin care, aging beauty, skincare treatment cosmetics concept.Shutterstock

Marchese tells us, "As your body changes with age, some differences, such as hair loss or graying, may be noticeable—however, other signs, such as skin changes or heart disease, maybe more subtle. People over 55 start to notice difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Women who have gone through menopause may have lower energy levels or are more at risk for bone fractures. Muscles in the pelvis become weaker, leading to unexpected urinary incontinence. Vision changes after 55 include dry eyes, loss of night vision, or limited color perception. Hearing ability may decrease, as well. Regardless of how you notice your body changing later in life, it’s always important to check in with your doctor regularly to catch any early illnesses or prevent any loss of function."

Avoiding Exercise and Activity

Mature Couple On Autumn Walk With LabradorShutterstock

Marchese reminds us that " a sedentary lifestyle can lead to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, dementia, and diabetes for people over 55 years old. The American Heart Association recommends that older adults aim for about two and a half hours of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly. If you’re unsure which exercises are appropriate for your age or health condition, consult with your doctor, who can guide you on the most appropriate activities."

Related: 6 Simple Exercises For Beginners to Look and Feel Better

Missing Essential Vaccinations

Doctor giving a senior woman a vaccination. Virus protection. COVID-2019.Shutterstock

"Adults over 55 years old have a less active immune system than younger people, making them more susceptible to contagious infections, such as pneumonia and influenza," Marchese says. "Everyone should aim to receive the flu shot annually unless contraindicated by a doctor, but older adults shouldn’t assume that’s enough. Doctors recommend that adults over 55 also receive shingles, meningitis, and pneumonia vaccines. Vaccines are safe and effective, and complications from these illnesses could be severe."

Self-Isolation

Depressed senior woman at home feeling sad. Elderly woman looks sadly outside the window. Depressed lonely lady standing alone and looking through the window.Shutterstock

Marchese shares, "Unfortunately, self-isolating and quarantine have become commonplace terms since the COVID-19 pandemic. Over time, this type of social isolation can affect older adults' mental and physical health. One study reported that loneliness in people over 55 years old can have the same adverse effects as smoking 15 cigarettes daily and can also increase the risk of dementia. If you feel lonely, look for online groups or start video calls with friends and families. Your doctor may be able to connect you with resources for socializing or group therapy, as well."

Related: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Settling for Poor Sleep

Depressed senior man lying in bed cannot sleep from insomniaShutterstock

Marchese says, "People over 55 years old may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, but insomnia should not be considered a normal part of aging. Inadequate sleep can reduce immune system effectiveness and increase the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Older adults require between seven and nine hours of good-quality sleep every night. If you haven’t slept enough, consider changing your bedtime routine or sleep environment. Reduce light sources (except safety lights such as in the bathroom) and consider adding a white or brown noise machine near the bed. Make your bedtime routine a regular habit and avoid screens in bed. If you’re still having trouble sleeping, consult with your doctor about other changes you could make or medicinal solutions."

💪🔥Body Booster: Stay active to reduce health risks as you age. Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week.

Woman looking at her reflection in the mirror.
Shutterstock/Robert Przybysz
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

There is no way to prevent aging. However, your lifestyle habits may dictate how quickly you physically age. If you want to slow the aging process, there are things you can do that don’t involve going under the knife. Nigar Ahmedli, MD, the director of the division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, reveals nine habits that accelerate aging – and explains how to remedy them.


Sun Exposure

Portrait of an old woman in a straw hat, sunglasses and a swimsuit applying sunscreen to her face while relaxing by the pool.Shutterstock

“Significant sun exposure leads to premature aging by creating sunspots and wrinkles,” says Dr. Ahmedli. “Several sunburns over a lifetime can increase the risk of skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.”

Not Wearing Sunscreen

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Not wearing sunscreen is linked to sun exposure. “Wearing sunscreen every time you spend more than 15 minutes in sunlight will decrease the damage done by the UV (ultraviolet) radiation to the skin,” explains Dr. Ahmedli. “It is important to use sun block creams that provide a full block, namely those containing zinc or titanium compounds.”

Lack of Basic Skincare

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If you aren’t taking care of your skin, you will age faster. “Basic skincare includes a face wash for hygiene and exfoliation, lotion for hydration, and sunscreen. Some people add various other serums and creams to this regimen to help brighten pigmented or darkened areas and decrease the appearance of wrinkles,” explains Dr. Ahmedli. “It is important to remember to wash your face with a gentle cleanser one to two times a day to remove the dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface. Especially in the winter, the skin loses moisture which can lead to flakiness, dry patches, and excoriations (cracks in the skin), which lotion can help address.”

RELATED: Britany Williams in Crop Top Shares 20-Minute Full Body Strength Workout

Smoking

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Smoking leads to several issues, explains Dr. Ahmedli. “For the skin, it produces a yellowish discoloration and a grayish dullness. Fine lines can appear around the lips due to constant pursing of the lips. The teeth become stained. Overtime, you can develop voice changes due to the constant irritation to the voice box, which leads to swelling and scar tissue formation. If you have surgery, it leads to worse wound healing and scarring due to narrowing of the small blood vessels that supply the face and neck,” she says.

Poor Diet

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A poor diet is another culprit behind premature aging. “There is no one diet that is ideal and works for everyone. The more generalized approach is to eat a balanced diet in moderation,” says Dr. Ahmedli. It is important to eat foods that supply a variety of proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals consisting of various vegetables, nuts, seeds, meats, and some fruits. Highly processed foods should be avoided as much as possible. “A balanced diet will help maintain your weight, especially as you age,” she adds.

Lack of Physical Activity

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If you want to look young longer, exercise. “There are certain recommendations for weekly activity. 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 days a week is a standard recommendation,” explains Dr. Ahmedli. “This implies that your heart rate needs to be elevated to promote cardiovascular health.” She adds that the “10,000 steps a day” that is often quoted in the media “does not fulfill this recommendation because your heart rate does not significantly go up beyond its resting rate,” she says. “As we age, the tendency is to gain weight (fat) and lose muscle mass. Aerobic exercise and weightlifting (many repetitions of lighter weights) help combat this.”

Significant Weight Gain

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“Significant weight gain can lead to various generalized health complications, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and sleep apnea,” says Dr. Ahmedli. “Sleep apnea is more and more common these days as health care providers have become more aware of its negative health impacts over time. In addition to poor, non-restorative sleep, it can be a contributing factor for high blood pressure, diabetes, and neurologic issues (such as brain fog).”

Limited Water Intake/Dehydration

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“Drinking adequate amounts of water each day (the typically recommended 8 glasses a day) is paramount to overall health,” Dr. Ahmedli maintains. A rule of thumb is to drink enough water so that your urine is a very light yellow. “The darker or more orange the urine becomes, the more dehydrated you are. Water allows the kidneys to flush out the wastes the body makes. Staying hydrated allows your heart and blood vessels to maintain appropriate heart rhythm and blood pressure. Water allows your skin cells to remain plump and provide a glow to the skin,” she says.

Related: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Stress-Filled Lifestyle

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Everyone experiences stress. However, too much of it can age you. “One way to limit external stressors is to limit social media use. The culture of social media has become obsessed with maintaining an image of the best possible version of yourself. This not only applies to physical perfection (with the use of makeup, filters, and surgery), but also the representation of a person as the best in business, career, fashion, social scene, etc.” says Dr. Ahmedli. “We look at others and think, ‘why are we not like that? How do I become like that person?’ Many of these expectations are not attainable or sustainable and not possible in ‘real life.’”

💪🔥Body Booster: A quick way to look younger? If you are dehydrated, drink more water.

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We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

A study from Harvard indicates that “higher intakes of fruit and vegetables were associated with lower mortality”—so have your 5 a day to live longer. But how can you look younger doing so? Rather than chase the Fountain of Youth, simply avoid the Pitfalls of Aging. "You can't change what you were dealt with genetically but you can take control of other factors which will help to stay looking younger," says Dr. Eugene D. Elliott of MemorialCare.


The Sun Can Cause “Photoaging” and Make You Look Older

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A tan makes you look young and cool—but it can have disastrous effects that can lead to wrinkles—or worse. “The sun’s rays can take a toll on your skin. In the short-term, that can mean contending with a scorching sunburn,” reports Yale Medicine. “But, there can also be long-term consequences lurking within the skin, even if you don’t experience a burn. The sun prematurely ages the skin. Called photoaging, this can lead to skin cancer. Signs of this photoaging are:

  • Wrinkling
  • Pigmentation changes such as age spots, liver spots (solar lentigines), and freckles
  • Loss of skin tone (decreased elasticity)
  • Rough, uneven skin texture
  • Broken capillaries (spider veins), usually around the nose and chest
  • Redness and blotchiness”

"My favorite sunblocks are mechanical, contain zinc and/ or titanium dioxide, and block the UVA damaging rays very effectively with frequent application," says Dr. Elliott.

Soda Can Make You Look Older

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It’s true—drinking sugary soda can age your cells. “Sugar-sweetened soda consumption might promote disease independently from its role in obesity, according to UC San Francisco researchers who found in a new study that drinking sugary drinks was associated with cell aging,” says one notable study, as reported in Science Daily. “Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened sodas might influence metabolic disease development through accelerated cell aging,” wrote the authors of the study in their conclusion. “The extremely high dose of sugar that we can put into our body within seconds by drinking sugared beverages is uniquely toxic to metabolism.” The same goes for sugary foods.

RELATED:I Lost 15 Pounds of Fat and Transformed My Body with These 9 Habits

Lack of Exercise Can Make You Look Older

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“Imagine a 90-year-old,” writes the Wellspring School of Allied Health. “They’re almost always slumped over, right? Well, a lot of that comes from limited flexibility and spinal support in younger years. Low flexibility in your 20s and 30s could cause some problems later on, the main ones being joint or muscle pain and an overall hunched-over look. There are certain types of exercises that can help you loosen your muscles and joints, like yoga or pilates. But you can also increase your flexibility even if you are only into cardio or weightlifting. Just make sure that you are going to start and end with warm-up exercises, and focus on stretching both before and after exercising every single time.”

Disrupted Sleep Can Age You

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Those with sleep apnea may actually age faster than the rest of us; if you have it, see a doctor. “Increasing sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) severity and sleep disruption was associated with epigenetic age acceleration, independent of measured confounders. These associations were stronger in women than in men, suggesting that women may be particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of SDB. Future work should study whether treatment reduces epigenetic age acceleration among those individuals with SBD,” according to one recent study. “A good night's sleep can do wonders for your youthful appearance, and since your face relaxes while you sleep, that can also help soften fine lines on the face," says Andrea Paul, MD. It is recommended that you get eight hours of sleep per night.

Stress Can Make You Look Older

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Don’t stress out too much over this, but stress ages you. “The telomeres are the ends of the chromosomes—the structures inside each cell that contain the genes,” reports Harvard Health. “Over time, the telomeres get shorter. When they get short enough, the cell dies. Chronic stress leads to shorter telomeres. And people with shorter telomeres are at greater risk for several major diseases, including heart disease and some forms of cancer. This is one more reason to reduce the amount of chronic stress in our lives. It's really not good for us.”

You Don't Take a Break Every 45-90 Minutes

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"Once you’re hard at work at your desk (or immersed in TV or the internet), it can be tough to remind yourself that you’ve been sitting still for a long time," says Dr. Jacob Hascalovici MD, Ph.D., Clearing Chief Medical Office. "Good posture is important, but it’s also very important to reset your posture by simply moving. Regular breaks can help your muscles and flexibility, improve your circulation, and can help you concentrate better. Rather than hampering your productivity, regular breaks, which can be simply standing up and stretching or taking a short, brisk walk, can also stave off the health risks of being sedentary for too long. Set an alarm for every 90 minutes to remind you to get up, and you’ll be off to a great start."

Letting Things Pile Up

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"Again, we all do this from time to time," Dr. Hascalovici emphasizes. "We toss mail into a pile, throw clothes on a chair, let our ‘to do’ list get really long, and just generally fail to take care of the little things. If we took a few moments to attend to pesky tasks and put things away before bedtime, we would feel more composed and able to concentrate. (Clutter, researchers have found, can disrupt our concentration and make us feel more distracted and less able to stay on task while letting things like unanswered messages or bills go for too long can add up to more effort and stress than if we had just taken care of them in the first place.) Sometimes, we let emotions pile up, too, holding in anger, resentment, bitterness, or other negative emotions that can heighten our stress and hike our chances of getting a heart attack. Instead, we can figure out healthier ways of “putting our emotions away,” such as improved communication, boundary setting, and mindfulness."

Smoking Can Make You Look Older

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A landmark study eight years ago proved cigarettes can age you. “In what is perhaps the best detail of the study, researchers used the annual Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg, Ohio (the ‘Largest Annual Gathering of Twins in the World!’) to round up the 79 identical pairs they include in the report. A panel of three plastic surgery residents compared the faces of the twins, one of which had been smoking for at least five years longer than the other,” reported the Today Show at the time. “They identified a few major areas of accelerated aging in the faces of the smoking twins: The smokers' upper eyelids drooped while the lower lids sagged, and they had more wrinkles around the mouth. The smokers were also more likely to have jowls, according to the study, which was published in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.”

Related: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Not Doing This Can Make You Look Older

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"I think the single most important thing you can do to look younger is smile. It decreases the number of wrinkles that appear over time on your face," says Dr. Leann Poston. "Smiling makes you happier and gives you more energy. A positive attitude encourages better eating habits and more exercise!"

💪🔥Body Booster: Take a break every 90 minutes. Stand up, stretch, or take a short walk to improve your focus and combat the risks of prolonged sitting. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Are you prematurely aging yourself? Sure, there are things you can do to help yourself look younger, including going under the knife or getting botox and other injections. However, according to one expert, simply bidding adieu to some bad habits can also effectively slow down aging. Kien Vuu, MD, Founder of Vuu MD Performance and Longevity, author of Thrive State, reveals 9 bad habits you should break if you want to look forever young.


1. Smoking

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If you want to slow down aging, start by putting down the pack of smokes. “The act of smoking can severely damage your skin and internal organs by introducing harmful molecules that speed up the aging process,” explains Vuu. Additionally, smoking can shrink your blood vessels, thereby decreasing oxygen and nutrient flow to the body.

2. Chronic Stress

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Don’t stress – it might age you faster. “Persistent stress results in the continuation of cortisol secretion, which can decrease the body's collagen,” says Vuu. “This protein sustains the skin's elasticity and can contribute to DNA-level cellular harm, causing premature aging.”

3. Sleep

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Sleeping more can help you with aging. “As we sleep, our bodies repair and renew cells. When sleep is consistently missed, these vital processes are disrupted and can accelerate internal and external aging,” says Vuu.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle

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Move more to age better. “Living a sedentary life can quickly lead to a decline in muscle mass and strength and a slower metabolism,” says Vuu. “It can also lead to steepening degeneration of body functions, which effectively speeds up the aging process.”

5. Highly Processed Foods

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Your diet also impacts aging. “Eating lots of highly processed foods often means you're consuming too much sugar and unhealthy fat and not enough potassium, fiber, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins,” claims Vuu.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

6. Toxic Relationships

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Toxic relationships can age you faster. “Remaining in harmful relationships can sustain stress and emotional disturbance, which adversely affects mental well-being and can be evident physically in the signs of aging,” says Vuu.

7. Loneliness

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On the opposite side of the spectrum, having few relationships is also not great for aging: “Loneliness can heighten the body's stress response, increasing the production of stress hormones and inflammation,” explains Vuu. These can increase the risk of a range of conditions, from heart disease and diabetes to dementia.

8. Selfishness

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Ego based living can age you faster as well. “When someone is entirely absorbed with themselves, a life without the intention of service, we activate the survival and stress system of our bodies. On the other hand, social connections and living a life of purpose are not just beneficial, but essential for our existence, and can also contribute to a longer life,” says Vuu.

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

9. Skin Damage

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Lather up in sunscreen if you want to look younger. “Exposure to UV rays without protection can lead to skin damage, including wrinkles and age spots, and significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, contributing to premature aging,” says Vuu.

💪🔥Body Booster: Be proactive about aging by examining your habits and making corrections now.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwoodI'm a Nutritionist and These 9 High-Protein Snacks Keep My Clients Full While Losing 50 Pounds

Copyright Tara Collingwood

“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

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“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

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Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.