Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women globally, accounting for nearly a third of all female deaths.

While certain risk factors like age and family history cannot be controlled, there are several lifestyle factors that women may unknowingly engage in, increasing their chances of developing heart disease. By being aware of these potential risks, women can take proactive measures to protect their hearts and overall well-being.

1. Sedentary Lifestyle

Leading a sedentary lifestyle, which involves little to no physical activity, significantly raises the risk of heart disease in women. Many modern-day occupations require hours of sitting in front of a computer or being immobilized in a cubicle.

Coupled with a lack of exercise, this sedentary lifestyle increases the likelihood of developing various cardiovascular conditions.

2. Poor Diet Choices

Unhealthy eating habits can have a detrimental impact on heart health. A diet high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and processed foods can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and obesity.

Women should strive for a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support heart health.

3. Tobacco Use

Smoking or using tobacco products is a significant risk factor for heart disease in women. It damages the blood vessels, reduces blood flow, and increases the risk of blood clots. Secondhand smoke is equally harmful to heart health.

Women should avoid smoking and minimize exposure to secondhand smoke to reduce their risk of heart disease.

4. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

While moderate alcohol consumption may have some heart benefits, excessive drinking can lead to various heart problems.

Heavy alcohol intake increases blood pressure, weakens heart muscles, and elevates the risk of heart failure, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Women should limit themselves to moderate alcohol consumption, which translates to one drink per day or less.

5. Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to heart disease in women. When stressed, the body releases hormones that, over time, damage blood vessels and raise blood pressure.

Additionally, coping mechanisms such as emotional eating, smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption further worsen heart health. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, seeking social support, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being are crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.

6. Hormonal Contraceptives

While hormonal contraceptives are generally safe for most women, certain factors can increase the risk of heart disease. Women over the age of 35, smokers, and those with existing heart conditions need to be cautious when using hormonal contraception.

Estrogen-containing birth control methods can raise blood pressure and increase blood clotting risks, which can result in heart-related problems.

7. Ignoring Warning Signs

Women often exhibit different symptoms of heart disease compared to men. Rather than experiencing the classic chest pain, women may have subtler signs like fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, or pain in the back, jaw, or neck.

These symptoms may be easily dismissed or attributed to conditions other than heart disease. Ignoring these warning signs delays diagnosis and treatment, and can lead to severe consequences.

8. Lack of Sleep

Good quality sleep is essential for heart health. Chronic sleep deprivation, characterized by consistently getting less than seven hours of sleep per night, increases the risk of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke.

Ensuring an adequate amount of uninterrupted sleep is crucial for maintaining optimal heart health.

9. Skipping Regular Check-ups

Regular check-ups allow healthcare professionals to assess risk factors, monitor heart health, and catch any potential issues early on. Women who avoid routine check-ups miss out on important opportunities for preventive care and early intervention.

Regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular risk factors are key to maintaining a healthy heart.

10. Lack of Physical Fitness Knowledge

Many women may be unaware of the importance of physical fitness and its direct impact on heart health.

Lack of knowledge about appropriate exercise routines, intensity levels, and duration can hinder women from engaging in cardiovascular activities that benefit their hearts. Educating oneself about physical fitness and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or fitness experts can go a long way in reducing heart disease risk.