Heart-health risk factors that are easy to beat

By Kimberly Garrison
Posted: February 21, 2013

1 OBESITY

Carrying extra pounds is a risk factor for nearly every preventable disease. No, it's not about being skinny - and it's not about being obese. It's about being at an optimal, healthy weight for your height. Forget the BMI and just look at yourself in a full-length mirror naked.

2 PHYSICAL INACTIVITY

Don't worry about running a marathon. Just commit to walking every day for a minimum of 30 minutes and doing a few calisthenics in your bedroom. It doesn't have to be complicated. Just do it!

3 SMOKING

Really, who's still smoking? Everybody knows that there are absolutely no benefits to it. You don't have to wait for the Great American Smokeout in November. You can quit today.

4 HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE & CHOLESTEROL

Genetics aside, these conditions are largely influenced by eating and exercise habits. A consistently healthy diet and regular exercise are the best natural ways to manage these conditions.

5 STRESS

Chronic stress and anxiety can be detrimental to your health. Exercise and breathing-relaxation techniques are the best natural ways to manage stress.

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