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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : October 27, 2014 4:00 PM IST
Did you know that you could get a heart attack without having a family history? Yes. According to a new study, lifestyle factors and not genetic factors are mainly responsible for heart attacks.
It was previously believed that heart attack is closely related to coronary heart disease, which is the reason why someone who is suffering from CHD would be considered prone to an attack. However, research team at the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute in Salt Lake City found that while severe CHD can be inherited, heart attacks could occur in people with less severe coronary disease that was not clustered in families. (Read: Healthy lifestyle may prevent heart disease in 4 out 5 men)
According to researcher Benjamin D. Horne, this finding may help people realise that, lifestyle choices have a greater control over their likelihood of a heart attack. Horne continued that these findings help them find new knowledge that has wide-spread, world-wide relevance in helping people avoid health risks and improve their quality of life. (Read: Suffering from heart disease? Here are foods you should avoid)
Tips to keep heart disease at bay
Kick the butt
The chemicals found in tobacco can damage your heart and blood vessels, leading to narrowing of the arteries, which in turn can lead to a heart attack. It also increases your heart rate and blood pressure. Even occasional or social smoking is dangerous and increases the risk of heart disease. The good news is that no matter how long you have been smoking, you will feel better, and begin reaping rewards as soon as you kick the habit. (Also read: Why you should quit smoking)
Eat healthy for your heart
One of the starting points is to revamp your diet and make smart substitutions such as switching to heart-healthy cooking oils like canola oil that is high in mono and polyunsaturated fats which help in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. Canola oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat, which may decrease your risk of heart attack, protect against irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure. Limit your intake of salt and sugar as excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure or cholesterol. Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. (Read: Expert tips to prevent heart disease)
With inputs from ANI
Photo source: Getty images
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