Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is the leading cause of death worldwide. Experts have revealed that there are surprising heart health secrets that people need to know in order to prevent heart disease and maintain a healthy heart.

Here are some of the surprising heart health secrets that experts have revealed:

1. Drinking coffee can be good for your heart

It was once believed that drinking coffee could increase the risk of heart disease. However, recent studies have found that regular coffee consumption can actually be good for your heart. According to a study published in the journal Circulation, drinking one to two cups of coffee per day was associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.

2. Sitting for long periods of time can be harmful to your heart

Many of us spend long hours sitting in front of a computer or a TV. However, experts have found that prolonged sitting can increase the risk of heart disease, regardless of whether you exercise regularly or not. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, sitting for more than eight hours a day can increase the risk of heart disease by up to 147%.

3. Stress can be detrimental to your heart

Stress is a common part of modern life, but it can be harmful to your heart. Experts have found that chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, and an increased risk of heart disease. According to a study published in the European Heart Journal, people who experience high levels of stress at work have a 68% higher risk of developing heart disease.

4. Walking can lower your risk of heart disease

Regular exercise is important for maintaining a healthy heart, but it doesn’t have to be intense or time-consuming. Something as simple as walking can have significant benefits for heart health. According to a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, people who walked for at least 30 minutes per day had a 19% lower risk of heart disease than those who didn’t walk at all.

5. A healthy diet is key to preventing heart disease

Diet plays a major role in heart health. A healthy diet that is low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can help prevent heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, a heart-healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts.

In conclusion, there are many surprising heart health secrets that people can use to prevent heart disease and maintain a healthy heart. Drinking coffee in moderation, avoiding prolonged sitting, managing stress, walking regularly, and eating a healthy diet are all simple yet effective ways to promote heart health. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can protect your heart and reduce your risk of heart disease.