Within the last couple decades, cardiovascular disease has reached No. 1 on the United States's top causes of death. Fortunately, simple daily habits can help reduce our risk for heart disease. Try these tips on lifestyle, nutrition, and physical activity:

Stay active

Physical activity isn't confined to a gym. There are easy ways to squeeze in physical activity throughout your day. Exercise has been proven to strengthen your stamina and improves your heart's pumping capability. Whether you are on a treadmill or taking the stairs, get up from your seat and do something active.

Are you stressed?

Stress is a contributor to heart disease and is highly linked with sudden heart attacks. Take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Although some stress can be healthy, chronic stress puts a strain on your heart and health. Try deep breathing exercises when stress starts to overwhelm you.

Reduce your salt intake

Excessive intake of salt increases your blood pressure and cholesterol levels—which are risk factors of a heart attack. It is also the culprit behind the bloating that you may experience. Keep your heart health at bay by reducing your salt intake to less than 1,500 mg a day (3/4 of a teaspoon).

Eat more heart-healthy foods

Eating a diet with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids can also help ward off heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in many fishes such as tuna, salmon, and halibut. These wonder fish will help your lower your cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation that can damage blood vessels throughout your body.

Get 6-8 hours of sleep at night

Your sleeping habits can also affect your heart. Research shows that reduced sleep causes little disruptions in your blood pressure and heart rate. To lower your blood pressure and improve your heart, get to bed early and improve your sleep health. 

Stay in front of Heart Disease

Visit your healthcare provider for a heart health evaluation.

For more information visit: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/