The risk of heart disease depends on several factors. Diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and conditions such as diabetes can all play a role.
For this reason, doctors recommend maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and keeping a healthy body weight.
Cardiologist David Min told EatingWell, as reported by Express, that several studies suggest a high intake of fruits such as apples, avocados, blueberries, and oranges may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Your waist can reveal important information
According to heart surgeon Jeremy London, body weight is not the only factor that matters. Excess fat around the abdomen can be a sign of an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
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He refers to a study that followed more than 500,000 people over a period of 12 years.
According to London, the findings showed that people with a high amount of visceral fat, fat surrounding the internal organs, were at greater risk of developing heart disease.
A simple test you can do at home
According to Express, Jeremy London has shared a simple method that requires nothing more than a measuring tape.
Measure your waist at the level of your navel after fully exhaling. Then measure your height.
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If your waist circumference is greater than half of your height, the doctor says it may be a good idea to speak with your doctor about your risk of heart disease.
He also emphasizes that this test cannot diagnose heart disease.
It should only be used as an initial screening tool to help determine whether further medical evaluation may be appropriate.
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