How to look after your heart health

My name is Dr Mo Sahebjalal, and I’m a consultant cardiologist at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in the UK, but the good news is that there is a lot we can all do to reduce our risk and keep our hearts healthy.

Many people think heart disease is something that only affects older people, but the choices we make throughout our lives can have a significant impact on our heart health. Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have.

One of the most important steps is maintaining a healthy, balanced diet. I’d strongly encourage people to eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and oily fish, while reducing foods high in saturated fat, salt and sugar. These small changes can make a real difference over time and help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Regular physical activity is equally important. You don’t need to run marathons or spend hours in the gym, but activities such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, gardening or dancing can all benefit your heart. Exercise helps keep your heart and circulatory system working efficiently and can also help you maintain a healthy weight.

Smoking remains one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease too, so if you smoke, stopping is one of the best things you can do for your health. It’s never too late to quit, and there is support available through NHS services to help you succeed.

I would also encourage people to know their numbers. Having your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar checked regularly can help identify problems early, often before you notice any symptoms. Managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can greatly reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Finally, remember that looking after your heart doesn’t require dramatic changes overnight. Small, sustainable improvements to your diet, activity levels and overall lifestyle can add up over time.

Your heart works hard for you every day. By taking a few simple steps now, you can help keep it healthy for years to come.