5 factors that increase the risk of heart attack

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced or completely cut off. According to the American Heart Association, in addition to gender, age, and family history, there are many risk factors that promote heart attacks.

High cholesterol

The liver produces cholesterol – a waxy substance that plays an essential role in hormone production, cell membrane structure and many other functions. High cholesterol can cause atherosclerosis, which in the long term can lead to heart attack. The buildup of plaque due to high cholesterol causes the body to reduce or cut off the blood supply to an important part of the brain, easily causing a stroke to occur. A diet high in saturated fat and trans fat can increase bad cholesterol levels.

High triglyceride levels

Along with high cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels are high. This is a triglyceride that is always present in the blood due to food metabolized every day and created by the liver, which also increases the risk of atherosclerosis, blood fat, heart attack, myocardial infarction, fatty liver, and stroke.

The body can convert certain foods into triglycerides. Specifically, when you eat more calories than your body needs, abuse fat or a lot of simple carbohydrates (soda, sweets), the excess calories will be converted into triglycerides, which are stored as fat.

Reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels by reducing saturated fat in the diet. Prioritize unsaturated fats found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds and fish. Plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes and tofu provide many nutritional benefits. They are low in calories, saturated fat, high in fiber and potassium, which contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease and chronic diseases.

Alcohol abuse

Alcohol harms health in many different ways. This drink in the body temporarily increases blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to heart attacks. Drinking too much alcohol can increase both cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. Men should limit their intake to no more than two drinks per day and one drink per day for women.

Not getting enough exercise

Regular exercise helps keep the heart healthy and promotes the growth of blood vessels inside the coronary arteries. Each person should exercise 150 minutes per week with moderate intensity from activities such as aerobics, walking, cycling, and gym training.

Stress

Although stress does not directly cause a heart attack, it can affect heart health by affecting lifestyle. For example, people under prolonged stress may overeat, choose less nutritious foods, start smoking or smoke more often, and drink more alcohol. Some activities that contribute to stress management include exercise, yoga, meditation, and prioritizing enough sleep every night.