The happiest way to keep heart disease at bay

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death in the U.S.

In fact, it’s estimated that the disease steals someone’s life every 33 seconds.

That’s why understanding—and addressing—cardiovascular risk factors is absolutely essential.

Of course, you probably already know that the Standard American Diet (SAD) is much to blame. (Poor dietary habits is the one of the biggest cardiovascular risk factors.)

But there’s another important risk factor that comes before high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, obesity, smoking, or kidney disease…

Do you know what it is?

Get yourself a companion

If you guessed physical inactivity—or a sedentary lifestyle—you’re right on the money.

After all, staying active can significantly reduce all-cause mortality (death) risk, cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related mortality, and cancer mortality.

Not to mention, it’s effective against countless chronic conditions, including depression, hypertension, cognitive decline, Type 2 diabetes, and more.

So, today, let’s talk about a super enjoyable way you can get (and stay) active…

Owning a dog.

Enjoyable protection

Federal guidelines suggest you get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, which breaks down to around 20 minutes daily.

This type of exercise raises your heart rate and allows you to break a sweat. But you should still be able to carry a conversation.

And walking a dog fits the bill.

In fact, studies have shown that dog owners have a four-fold greater chance of meeting physical activity guidelines compared to those who don’t have a dog.

And that makes sense, as dog owners walk their dogs—a simple act that offers tremendous protection to your health.

(Even if you don’t meet those guidelines, simply getting out and walking with your furry companion is better than the alternative—sitting.)

In fact, in a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, researchers found that walking 3,867 steps daily reduced all-cause mortality risk. Plus, walking just 2,337 steps daily offered protection against CVD.

Of course, the health benefits associated with dog ownership don’t end there…

Researchers have discovered that owning a dog can reduce all-cause mortality by 24 percent. A furry companion can also slash death risk among heart attack survivors who live alone by an impressive 33 percent.

And we haven’t even touched on the psychosocial benefits associated with pet ownership. (Like improving mental health.)

But I’m all out of space for today—so be sure to tune back in on Thursday, where we’ll continue our discussion.

P.S. For more ways to keep America’s biggest killers at bay, like CVD and hypertension, check out my Ultimate Heart-Protection Protocol. Click here now to learn more!

Sources:

“Having a dog can help your heart — literally.” Harvard Health Publishing, 09/01/2015. (health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/having-a-dog-can-help-your-heart—literally)

“Owning a dog linked to lower risk of death after a heart attack, study finds.” NBC News, 10/08/2019. (nbcnews.com/health/heart-health/owning-dog-linked-lower-risk-death-after-heart-attack-study-n1063526)