While we often celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, we rarely take the time to consider the age of our heart. But just like any other organ, the heart can age and deteriorate over time.

Many factors can affect heart health, including diet, exercise, stress, and genetics. Take this quiz to discover the age of your heart and learn more about how to keep it healthy.

Question 1: How often do you exercise?

A. Never.

B. Rarely (less than once a week).

C. Occasionally (1-2 times per week).

D. Regularly (3-5 times per week).

E. Daily (6 or more times per week).

Question 2: How would you describe your diet?

A. Mostly fast food and junk food.

B. High in processed foods.

C. A mix of healthy and unhealthy foods.

D. Mostly whole, unprocessed foods.

E. Strictly whole, unprocessed foods.

Question 3: How often do you feel stressed?

A. Constantly.

B. Frequently.

C. Occasionally.

D. Rarely.

E. Never.

Question 4: How much sleep do you typically get each night?

A. Less than 5 hours.

B. 5-6 hours.

C. 7-8 hours.

D. 9-10 hours.

E. More than 10 hours.

Question 5: How often do you smoke?

A. Regularly (daily).

B. Occasionally (less than once a week).

C. Rarely (less than once a month).

D. Never (I have never smoked).

Question 6: How often do you drink alcohol?

A. Regularly (daily).

B. Frequently (several times a week).

C. Occasionally (once a week or less).

D. Rarely (once a month or less).

E. Never (I do not drink alcohol).

Related Article Calculate Your Heart’s True Age

Question 7: How often do you have a check-up with your doctor?

A. Never.

B. Rarely (less than once a year).

C. Occasionally (1-2 times per year).

D. Regularly (every 6 months).

E. Very frequently (every 3 months or more).

Question 8: Do you have a family history of heart disease?

A. Yes, immediate family members have had heart disease.

B. Yes, extended family members have had heart disease.

C. No, there is no family history of heart disease.

Question 9: Have you ever been diagnosed with high blood pressure or high cholesterol?

A. Yes, I currently have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

B. Yes, but it is under control with medication.

C. No, I have never been diagnosed with high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Question 10: Have you ever experienced chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations?

A. Yes, frequently.

B. Yes, occasionally.

C. No, I have never experienced these symptoms.

Your Results

Based on your answers, your heart is:.

<?php //set variables $score = 0; $max_score = 18; //calculate score if($_POST['question1'] == "E"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question1'] == "D"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question2'] == "E"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question2'] == "D"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question3'] == "E"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question3'] == "D"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question4'] == "C"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question4'] == "B"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question5'] == "D"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question5'] == "C"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question6'] == "E"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question6'] == "D"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question7'] == "D"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question7'] == "C"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question8'] == "A"){ $score += 1; } elseif($_POST['question8'] == "B"){ $score += 0.5; } if($_POST['question9'] == "C"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question9'] == "B"){ $score += 1; } if($_POST['question10'] == "C"){ $score += 2; } elseif($_POST['question10'] == "B"){ $score += 1; } //calculate age $heart_age = round($score / $max_score * 50 + 20); //output result echo "

Your heart age is approximately $heart_age.

“; //interpretation of heart age if($heart_age < 30){ echo "

Your heart is younger than your actual age, which is great news! However, don’t get complacent. Continue to make healthy choices to keep your heart young and prevent future problems.

“; } elseif($heart_age >= 30 && $heart_age <= 50){ echo "

Your heart is approximately the same age as your actual age, which is a good sign. But there may be some room for improvement. Look for ways to reduce your risk factors and build heart-healthy habits.

“; } else{ echo ”

Your heart is older than your actual age, which is a cause for concern. Focus on making lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your heart health.

“; } ?>

How to Keep Your Heart Young

If your heart age is higher than your actual age, don’t panic. There are many things you can do to improve your heart health and reduce your risk of heart disease. Here are some tips:.

Tips for a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods is vital for heart health. Aim to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid or limit processed and fast foods, and watch your intake of salt and added sugars.

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity can help keep your heart strong and reduce your risk of heart disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

If you’re new to exercise, start with shorter, easier workouts and gradually increase the intensity and duration.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart health. Find ways to manage and reduce stress, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Make time for hobbies and activities you enjoy, and prioritize self-care.

Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is vital for overall health, including heart health. Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, and create a relaxing sleep environment that is dark, quiet, and cool.

Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol

Tobacco use is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, consider quitting.

Drinking alcohol in moderation (up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men) may have some health benefits, but excessive drinking can harm your heart and overall health.

Get Regular Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your doctor can help identify and manage risk factors for heart disease. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other markers of heart health.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations for screenings and tests, and take any prescribed medications as directed.