Heart disease is the leading cause of death in many countries around the world. This disease can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. The good news is, you can prevent heart disease by adopting heart-healthy habits.

Here are ten habits that can keep your heart healthy and strong.

1. Exercise regularly

Physical activity is good for your heart and overall health. Regular exercise can help lower your blood pressure, reduce your risk of heart disease, and increase your stamina. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days a week.

Examples of good exercises for heart health include brisk walking, running, cycling, and swimming.

2. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. To maintain a healthy weight, you should eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated and trans fats. You should also limit your alcohol intake.

3. Quit smoking

Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Smoking can damage the lining of your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in your arteries.

This can cause your arteries to narrow and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your heart health.

4. Manage stress

Chronic stress can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. To manage stress, you should practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

You should also make time for hobbies, socializing, and other activities that you enjoy.

5. Get enough sleep

A lack of sleep can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

If you have trouble sleeping, try to establish a regular sleep routine and avoid caffeine and electronics before bedtime.

6. Control your blood pressure

High blood pressure can damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. To control your blood pressure, you should eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and limit your salt intake.

You should also monitor your blood pressure regularly and take medication if prescribed by your doctor.

7. Manage your cholesterol levels

High levels of LDL cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease, while high levels of HDL cholesterol can protect your heart.

To manage your cholesterol levels, you should eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take medication if prescribed by your doctor.

8. Control your blood sugar

High blood sugar levels can damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. To control your blood sugar, you should eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take medication if prescribed by your doctor.

9. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

Men should limit themselves to two drinks a day, while women should limit themselves to one drink a day.

10. Get regular check-ups

Regular check-ups can help you monitor your heart health and catch any problems early. You should see your doctor for a check-up at least once a year, or more often if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other risk factors.

Your doctor can also help you develop a heart-healthy lifestyle plan and monitor any existing health conditions.