Heart disease continues to be a growing concern worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 17.9 million lives are lost to cardiovascular diseases every year — that’s nearly 32 per cent of all global deaths. In India alone, the burden is particularly high, with The Lancet reporting that heart disease accounts for over 28 per cent of all deaths in the country.

What’s more alarming is that many heart attacks occur without warning and affect not just the elderly, but also younger people. But there is good news — many heart disease risk factors are actually preventable through simple lifestyle changes.

Dr Jack Wolfson, a board-certified cardiologist known for his holistic approach to health, recently took to Instagram to share five easy yet impactful steps that anyone can adopt to reduce the risk of heart attacks. His suggestions are rooted in natural living and are easy to incorporate into daily life.

5 Heart-Friendly Habits, According to Dr Jack Wolfson

1. Get outside

“Spending more time outdoors lowers your risk of heart attack,” says Dr Wolfson. Natural light, fresh air, and physical activity help lower blood pressure and reduce stress.

“Whatever time you’re going to bed, make it an hour earlier,” he recommends. Quality sleep supports recovery, hormonal balance, and heart function.

“Dial down on the tech,” he advises. Less screen time can lead to better sleep, lower stress, and a more active lifestyle — all important for a healthy heart.

“Stand outside barefoot — it’s called grounding, and it’s great for your heart,” says Dr Wolfson. This practice may help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

“At least once a day, give thanks to God,” he suggests. Practising gratitude has been shown to lower stress hormones like cortisol and improve emotional well-being — both of which benefit heart health.

Common Triggers of Heart Disease

Understanding what puts your heart at risk can help in prevention. Some of the most common triggers include:

These factors can strain the heart over time, leading to high blood pressure, plaque buildup in arteries, and eventually, heart attacks or strokes.

Symptoms of Heart Disease to Watch For

It’s crucial not to ignore the warning signs of heart problems. Some symptoms include:

If you or someone you know experiences any of these signs, especially chest discomfort or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately.

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