A heart attack occurs when the flow of blood to the heart is significantly reduced or blocked. This is often caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries. These deposits are known as plaque, which can sometimes lead to blood clots, disrupting the smooth flow of blood to the heart.
However, a recent medical study has revealed that making one simple yet impactful lifestyle change regular daily exercise can dramatically lower the risk of heart attacks.
According to research published in the American journal Circulation, incorporating just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity into one’s daily routine can reduce the risk of heart attack by as much as 60%.
The study included over 600 patients from New York who had previously experienced heart attacks or other cardiovascular conditions. Between 2016 and 2020, these patients were monitored using wrist-worn devices that tracked their physical activity and sleep patterns.
The findings revealed that spending more than 10 hours a day sitting or remaining inactive significantly increases the risk of heart disease. In contrast, those who engaged in any form of regular exercise experienced a marked reduction in this risk.
Researchers emphasized that even small changes—such as incorporating moderate daily exercise—can help keep the heart’s arteries healthy, reduce blood pressure, improve sleep, and positively affect mood, all of which contribute to lowering the risk of heart-related issues.
They further noted that a sedentary lifestyle is especially dangerous for individuals who already suffer from heart conditions, potentially worsening their health outcomes.