How Protects Your Heart

Regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do to protect your heart and improve your overall health. Here are some specific ways that exercise can help protect your heart:

Lowers blood pressure. Exercise helps to lower blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. This is because exercise helps to improve the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, which reduces the strain on the heart muscles.

Reduces cholesterol levels. Exercise can help to lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is the "bad" cholesterol that can build up in the arteries and cause plaque. Plaque buildup can narrow the arteries and make it difficult for blood to flow to the heart, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Promotes healthy blood flow. Exercise helps to improve blood flow throughout the body, including the heart. This helps to ensure that the heart receives the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly.

Improves fitness levels. Exercise can help to improve your overall fitness levels, which can reduce your risk of developing heart disease. This is because exercise helps to strengthen the heart, lungs, and muscles, which all play a role in heart health.

Controls diabetes. Exercise can help to control type 2 diabetes, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. This is because exercise helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which can help to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes or manage the disease if you already have it.

Helps maintain a healthy weight. Exercise can help you to maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce your risk of developing heart disease. This is because excess weight can strain the heart and lead to the development of high blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease.

Reduces stress. Exercise can help to reduce stress, which can be a major factor in heart disease. This is because stress can lead to increased blood pressure, which can put a strain on the heart.

Promotes mental health. Exercise can help to improve mental health, which can also lead to improved heart health. This is because mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can be major risk factors for heart disease.