How Exercise Lowers Your Risk of Heart Disease
Cardiologist David Anstey, MD, MPH, talks about the benefit of exercise for preventing and treating heart disease.
When heart-healthy habits come up, you might first think about changes to your diet, like reducing sodium and saturated fat. Those are very important, but one lifestyle change for heart health that often gets missed is exercise. There are several benefits of exercise that can help your entire body, including your cardiovascular system.
In general, find ways to get a variety of cardio, strength training, and stretching. All of these have unique benefits to your heart health (and overall health). Remember, cardio doesn’t have to be running. It could mean cycling, swimming, or dancing (to name a few). Even certain types of yoga can help get your heart rate up.
Learn more about healthy habits for heart health.
- D. Edmund Anstey MD, MPHD. Edmund Anstey, MD, MPH, is a cardiologist practicing in New York City.
References
American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). Blood sugar and exercise.
American Heart Association. (2016). Getting active to control high blood pressure.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Physical activity for a healthy weight.
UpToDate. (2022). Overview of primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.