When I think about a health kick or making some lifestyle changes focusing on heart health isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. I’m always more focussed on answering simpler questions like ‘How do I loose weight?’ or ‘Will becoming vegan improve my skin?’. However, there are lots of easy ways to look after your heart and have it functioning at its best. The heart health experts from Vitabiotics have put together some of their favourite weird and wonderful tips for keeping your heart healthy. Surprisingly they’re all things that sound pretty fun to me…

Sing in the shower

Although you might not be thinking about the health benefits if you’re singing along to your favourite tunes in the shower, singing has been found to have a whole host of health benefits. As it helps you to relax, this can reduce blood pressure, which is great for your heart. So next time you’re in the shower, turn up those tunes!

 

Photo by Logan Ripley on Unsplash

 

Brush your teeth

Believe it or not, your gums and teeth are closely connected to your heart. Poor dental hygiene can cause gum disease, which is linked with an increased risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Make sure you’re brushing thoroughly for two minutes, twice per day, to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and keep up with flossing.

Have a brew

Drinking tea has been linked with a reduced risk of heart disease, so make sure to pop the kettle on regularly! Tea contains flavonoids which are powerful antioxidants, which help to keep your heart functioning well.

 

tes Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

 

Nibble on some chocolate

Moderate consumption of chocolate has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, so it’s worth nibbling on a square of dark chocolate now and again. Make sure not to go overboard, and opt for healthier dark chocolate rather than sweet and sugary milk chocolate to make the most of these health benefits.

Switch off the TV

We’re all guilty of being couch potatoes from time to time, but did you know if you spend four hours or more per day watching TV, you’re 80% more likely to die from heart disease? Cut down on time spent in front of the TV, and instead spend time outdoors or getting active to benefit your heart even further.

 

 

These simple tips and tricks will help you to keep your family’s hearts healthy, and will build good habits that will benefit them in the future.