There’s no better time than now to start thinking about heart health. Whether you have a family history of heart disease or are simply trying to live better longer, understanding how to take care of your heart can set you up for success.
But how much do you really know about this vital organ? Take our quiz to find out.
If you’re looking for expert-backed ways to boost heart health, cardiologist Dr Rushik Bhuva shares what he wants everyone to know.
What can you do to boost heart health?
“It’s vital to stay in close contact with your doctors to learn about your cardiovascular health,” says Dr Bhuva. “Communication is key to making informed healthcare decisions and knowledge empowers patients to take charge of their own wellbeing. Remember, you are never alone in this fight.”
For those without existing heart conditions, exercise is one of the most effective ways to support heart health. “I recommend doing at least 15 to 20 minutes of moderate to high-intensity exercise daily,” says Dr Bhuva. Many people assume that working full-time or leading an active lifestyle is enough, but regular, intentional exercise is essential.
Diet also plays a pivotal role in keeping the heart strong. “The Mediterranean diet, for example, has proven to be highly effective,” Dr Bhuva explains. “Overall, reducing salt, sugar, dairy and processed foods—especially processed meats—can significantly improve heart health. These lifestyle changes not only support cardiovascular function but also benefit mental health and reduce the risk of neurological and inflammatory diseases.”
What can those with cardiovascular disease do to help heart health?
Managing heart health depends on the specific cardiovascular condition a person has, but overall, a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise and quality sleep play a crucial role, says Dr Bhuva. Here’s what he recommends for optimal heart health.
Prioritise Sleep
A good night’s rest is more important for heart health than many realise. “It may not be well known, but sleep apnoea is a major culprit in many heart diseases and arrhythmias,” says Dr Bhuva. “If someone has trouble staying asleep, snores, feels constantly tired or takes multiple naps during the day, I recommend getting an evaluation.”
Maintain a Healthy Weight
“Weight gain is a primary driver of most cardiovascular diseases,” says Dr Bhuva. “We have seen significant improvements in heart health when patients focus on achieving a healthier weight.”
Manage Cholesterol
For those diagnosed with coronary artery disease, managing cholesterol is key. “Lowering LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) has been shown to stabilise and even reduce plaque buildup in the arteries,” Dr Bhuva explains.
Reduce Sodium Intake
Salt plays a major role in heart health, particularly for those with congestive heart failure. “We’ve seen significant improvements in patients who actively reduce sodium in their diet,” Dr Bhuva says. “Keeping a daily log of weight, blood pressure and heart rate can help patients and their doctors make informed decisions about medications and treatment.”
Stay Active
Exercise is a powerful tool for heart health. “For many people with atrial arrhythmia, daily moderate exercise can be very effective,” says Dr Bhuva. “Staying hydrated is also crucial—aim for 1,700 to 2,000 ml of plain water daily, unless advised otherwise by your doctor, particularly for those with heart failure.”
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