The heart is the hardest working muscle in the human body and each day it pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood. It never stops and is always working. Such a diligent muscle has to be in the best state it can be, and with a few changes in life, you and your heart can be feeling much better. Heart disease is one of the main killers of women and men in the usa, but the majority of the causes of heart attacks are preventable and are largely due to poor lifestyle and diet choices.A build-up of cholesterol and cholesterol in the arteries is the principal cause of cardiovascular disease and failure. This build up is called plaque. Once assembled up to a certain degree, the plaque can break open, causing blood clots to form. This can lead to a complete blockage in the artery and prevent oxygen rich blood from reaching the heart, leading to heart failure.

Diet

Because the significant cause of heart disease is the build-up of cholesterol and cholesterol from the arteries, this should be a sign that heart diet and health are directly associated with Research indicates that a diet rich in olive oil, Omega-3, garlic, whole grains and fresh vegetable will significantly reduce heart problems. The truth is it is been proven that those who have a Mediterranean diet are at less risk from cardiovascular disease.Over-processed foods are a significant dietary concern. When food is over-processed it loses the vast majority of the critical nutrients. Processed grains found in white bread, as well as the sugars found in soda and the sodium in fast food significantly increase the risk of heart complications. Not only is unprocessed food better for your heart, it tastes better also.

Physical Activity

The heart is a muscle and like all muscles it has to be exercised. When the heart is strengthened it is going to become more effective at distributing the flow of blood around the body. The best exercise you can do for your heart is aerobic. This may include swimming, bicycling and walking.If you are new to exercising, it is important that you take things slowly. The recommended daily amount of exercise is 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times each week. But do not believe that you will need to do this amount straight away; the most important thing with exercise is consistency. Do what you can, but keep at it. Over time you will have the ability to go longer and do more.