Heart disease is a leading cause of death among women, but the good news is that it’s largely preventable.

By making a few simple changes to your lifestyle, you can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and protect your heart health for years to come. Here are six changes that women can make today to take control of their cardiovascular health:.

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health. Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reduce your intake of unhealthy fats, processed foods, and sugary drinks.

Incorporate heart-friendly foods like salmon, nuts, berries, and dark chocolate into your meals to provide essential nutrients and promote heart health.

2. Get Moving Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity is key to protecting your heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

Find activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing, and make them a regular part of your routine. Exercise improves heart function, lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol levels, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, quitting is the single most important step you can take to protect your heart. Seek support from friends, family, or a smoking cessation program to help you overcome addiction.

Within just a few months of quitting, your risk of heart disease drops significantly.

4. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart health. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you unwind.

Prioritize self-care and make time for activities that promote relaxation and mental well-being.

5. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol intake can contribute to high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and other heart problems. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation. Limit your alcohol consumption to one drink per day for women.

Avoid binge drinking, and if you have a history of alcohol abuse, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether.

6. Prioritize Sleep

Getting adequate sleep is essential for heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night. Poor sleep can increase the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which can negatively impact your heart health.

Establish a consistent sleep routine, create a calm sleep environment, and avoid electronic devices before bedtime to improve sleep quality and protect your heart.

Making these changes may seem overwhelming at first, but remember that small steps can lead to big improvements in your heart health. Start by focusing on one change at a time and gradually incorporate others into your routine.

Seek support from friends, family, or healthcare professionals to stay motivated and accountable in your journey to protect your heart.

By implementing these six changes into your lifestyle, you’ll significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall cardiovascular health. Remember, it’s never too late to start prioritizing your heart health.

Take control of your future today and make these changes to protect your heart for years to come.