Nicotine in cigarettes damages blood arteries, making them more prone to clog and increase heart disease risk.
Smoking elevates blood pressure, heart rate, and depletes cardiac oxygen.
A poor diet, especially one high in saturated and trans fats, can cause high blood pressure, cholesterol, and other heart disease risk factors.
Sedentary lifestyles can cause weight gain, high blood pressure, and other heart disease risk factors.
Alcohol is one of the worst heart-health behaviors since it damages the heart muscle and raises blood pressure.
Alcohol should be consumed moderately. Alcohol should not exceed the daily suggested limit of 1-2 drinks for males and 1 for women.
Stress management through exercise, meditation, or counseling can improve heart health.
Setting limits, self-care, and getting support from friends, family, or a professional can help.