The Worst Habits That Are Clogging Your Arteries, According To Cardiologists

Smoking

Smoking not only affects your lungs, but it can spread to your heart and blood vessels as well. “The use of tobacco is often referred to as the number one preventable risk for coronary artery disease.”

Lack of Sleep

Not getting enough sleep can affect everything from your immune system to your skin, and even your stress levels. Stress is one thing that can have a major impact on your heart health. Not getting enough sleep consistently can have long term effects on your heart health, and increase your risk of heart disease.

Additionally, Dr. Erin Stokes, Naturopathic Doctor and Medical Director at MegaFood notes, "Sleep is essential to our health and well-being. Quality sleep for seven to nine hours per night boosts our immune system, improves our mood and energy, and helps with our cognitive function."

Aside from bad habits that could be negatively affecting your heart health, what are the things you can add to your lifestyle and routines that can reduce your risk of heart disease? “Healthy eating is a great way to prevent heart disease. Focus on fruits, vegetables and grains as well as low fat dairy, poultry and fish. [You should] limit simple carbohydrates and red meat,” Dr. Saleh says.

Maintaining good health is complex, but it starts with your habits. Smoking and not getting enough sleep are two habits that could be raising your risk of heart disease, specifically clogged arteries, so being sure to prioritize rest and quit smoking are two things you can do for your long term heart health. Besides that, you should also eat a nutrient dense diet, and be mindful of your intake of things like red meat and carbohydrates. All of these things work in tandem to create a healthy and balanced body.