9 habits approved by cardiologists for a healthy heart
ET Online
Aug 13, 2025
Stay physically active daily
Doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate activity like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming daily. Regular movement improves blood circulation, strengthens the heart muscle, and reduces cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Image Source: iStock
Eat a heart-friendly diet
Load your plate with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Limit processed foods, sugar, and trans fats to reduce plaque buildup in arteries and improve heart function.
Image Source: iStock
Manage stress effectively
Chronic stress raises blood pressure and cortisol levels. Cardiologists recommend yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies to calm the mind and reduce the strain on your heart.
Image Source: iStock
Get quality sleep
Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly. Poor sleep increases risks of hypertension, obesity, and irregular heartbeat, major contributors to heart disease. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Image Source: iStock
Limit salt and sugar Intake
Too much sodium increases blood pressure, while excess sugar fuels obesity and inflammation. Choose fresh foods over packaged ones and read nutrition labels before buying groceries.
Image Source: iStock
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol
Tobacco damages arteries and increases clot risk. Alcohol in excess raises blood pressure. Cardiologists suggest quitting smoking entirely and limiting alcohol to moderate or no intake.
Image Source: iStock
Maintain a healthy weight
Extra body weight strains your heart and raises cholesterol. Focus on balanced eating and physical activity to reach and maintain an optimal BMI.
Image Source: iStock
Keep blood pressure and cholesterol in check
Get regular health check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Early detection helps prevent serious heart problems before they develop.
Image Source: iStock
Stay socially connected
Strong social bonds lower stress and promote emotional well-being. Make time for friends, family, and community, your heart thrives when your mind and mood are healthy.
Image Source: iStock
Thanks For Reading!