9 Ways to Prevent Heart Disease

Stress is a normal part of life, but high stress levels can affect a number of risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, overeating, smoking, poor sleep, and lack of physical activity. When the body is in a state of stress, it releases the hormone cortisol, which, in high levels, can increase cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Therefore, reducing stress is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

Evidence suggests practicing mindfulness meditation is one way to do this. One study found that mindfulness-based stress reduction programs were linked to a decrease in symptoms of stress, including chronic worrying and poor sleep. The AHA also recommends partaking in your favorite stress-busting activity, even if only for 10 or 15 minutes, including reading a book, playing a sport, making art, playing with kids or pets, listening to music, gardening, or practicing yoga.