Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart muscles can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It affects millions of people worldwide, and the risk of developing heart failure increases with age.

However, some people are less likely to develop heart failure than others. In this article, we will discuss who is less likely to develop heart failure.

Physical Fitness

People who are physically fit are less likely to develop heart failure. Exercise helps to improve heart function, lower blood pressure, reduce body fat, and improve blood flow.

Regular exercise also lowers the risk of developing other health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity that can increase the risk of heart failure. Studies have shown that even moderate exercise such as walking for 30 minutes a day can improve heart function and reduce the risk of heart failure.

Healthy Diet

Consuming a healthy diet can also reduce the risk of heart failure. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.

A diet high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and processed foods can increase the risk of heart disease, leading to heart failure. Eating a healthy diet can also help reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health conditions.

Non-Smokers

Smoking tobacco increases the risk of heart disease, which ultimately can lead to heart failure. Nicotine in cigarettes raises blood pressure, making the heart work harder.

Smoking also damages the blood vessels and reduces the amount of oxygen the heart receives, making it more difficult for the heart to function properly. Therefore, people who do not smoke or quit smoking are less likely to develop heart failure.

Healthy Weight

Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart disease and heart failure. Being overweight puts extra pressure on the heart, increasing the risk of heart failure.

Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and heart failure. This can be achieved by maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol in moderation has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and heart failure. Moderate alcohol consumption means a drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

However, excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of heart disease and heart failure. Therefore, people who drink alcohol should limit their consumption to prevent adverse outcomes.

Good Sleep

Getting 7-9 hours of good quality sleep each night is essential for maintaining heart health. Poor sleep quality can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes, which increase the risk of heart disease and heart failure.

Therefore, practicing good sleep hygiene can reduce the risk of developing heart failure.

Low-Stress Levels

Stress is a major risk factor for heart disease and heart failure. High-stress levels can lead to high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and other health problems that increase the risk of heart disease and heart failure.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation can decrease the risk of heart disease and heart failure.

Regular Check-up

Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect early signs of heart disease and heart failure. Getting screened for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can help prevent the development of heart failure.

Regular exercise stress tests can detect signs of heart disease, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

Good Hygiene Practices

Good hygiene practices such as maintaining good oral health and washing hands frequently have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and heart failure.

Poor oral health can lead to inflammation in the body, which contributes to the development of heart disease. Frequent handwashing can prevent contracting infections that can harm the heart.

Conclusion

Heart failure is a significant health concern, but there are several ways to reduce the risk of developing this condition.

Engaging in regular exercise, consuming a healthy diet, non-smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, moderate alcohol consumption, good sleep hygiene, low-stress levels, regular check-ups, and good hygiene practices can all help reduce the risk of heart failure.