In both the US and Canada, heart disease is a leading cause of death. Heart disease can be caused by genetic and hereditary factors. But lifestyle and behavioural choices also play a key role in contributing to this disease. As a result, you can reduce your risk of heart disease by knowing how your lifestyle affects your health and taking steps to lead a more heart-healthy life.

How do you change your lifestyle to protect your heart and reduce your risk of heart disease? Give these 4 strategies a try:

1. Keep moving during the day

Engaging in regular exercise can benefit your heart and reduce your risk of heart disease in 2 ways: it helps you manage your weight and stay in shape. But there’s something else you can do to improve your cardiovascular health: keep moving during the day.

Research shows that people are more likely to have a heart-related episode when they sit for long periods of time during the day. You can stay active during the day by taking walking breaks, parking your car farther from your destination, and using a standing desk.

2. Manage your meal portions

Excess weight can place a strain on your heart and cardiovascular system. This is why maintaining a healthy weight is important for minimizing your risk of heart disease.

Although there are many ways to manage your weight, one of the easiest ways is to control your portion sizes. How do you do this? Use smaller plates and bowls while eating, avoid going for seconds, and don’t eat until you feel stuffed. We also recommend loading up on fruits and veggies and limiting your intake of high-calorie and processed foods.