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What are the causes of heart disease and stroke? Learn about the long list of risk factors that can lead to stroke and heart disease.

There is a long list of risk factors that can lead to stroke and heart disease, but the good news is that almost all of them are preventable.

It’s critical that you known these risks, so that you can monitor them.

This will not just decrease your chance of stroke and heart disease, but it will also promote a healthier and stronger you.

Stroke and heart disease are the two deadliest diseases in the entire world, killing millions of people every year.

In fact, out of three economic groupings of countries that are considered high-income, middle-income, and low-income; either stroke or heart disease ranks number 1 on the top 10 causes of death.

7 Main Causes of Heart Disease and Stroke

Causes of Heart Disease and StrokeWhen it comes to heart disease and stroke, there are a few non-preventable factors such as family history, age, and ethnicity.

There are, however, many preventable risk factors that you need to be aware of.

1. Hypertension

Hypertension is defined and known as having “high-blood pressure”.

It is the greatest risk factor for stroke, and can be a factor in heart attacks.

2. Tobacco

Any form of tobacco use increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially if you started young.

3. Physical Inactivity

This makes you 50% more likely to have a stroke or heart disease.

Furthermore, physical inactivity predisposes you to diabetes which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

4. Type 2 Diabetes

This is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

If you have diabetes you are twice as like to get cardiovascular disease.

5. Diet

One of the most important preventable risk factors to consider.

Other risk factors are caused by a poor diet such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

6. High Cholesterol

A risk factor for stroke and heart disease.

7. Lack of Sleep

This is one of the more overlooked risk factors, but lack of sleep can promote hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes; and then to stroke and heart disease.

Causes of Heart Disease and StrokePreventing Heart Disease and Stroke

If you want to prevent heart disease and stroke in your life, you have to be ready to make some lifestyle changes.

The following tips can help lower your risk of these diseases and improve your health.

1. Know the Risk Factors

There are certain factors that increase the likelihood of heart disease such as smoking and a family history of heart disease.

Know your risks and share them with your doctor to make an effective prevention plan.

2. Eat Healthily

Limit your intake of sweetened beverages, processed meats, sodium, and refined carbs.

Instead, center your diet around fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean animal proteins and fish.

3. Stay Active

Plan to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, as well as 75 minutes of more vigorous workouts.

If you’re not currently active, start small and gradually increase your activity levels.

4. Take Supplements

Besides taking medication when a doctor prescribes it, supplements can go a long way.

For example, L-arginine Plus helps support healthy blood pressure levels, cholesterol levels, energy levels, and overall heart health.

However, it’s important to check with your doctor before adding supplements to your routine, as they may interact with currently prescribed medication.

Most importantly, stay on top of your health and make any necessary changes so you can have a long, healthy life.