According to the CDC, heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the United States for more than a century.

Despite incredible advances in testing, early detection, surgical procedures, and medications, cardiovascular disease continues to claim more lives than any other condition.

Why?

One major reason is that many adults are unknowingly increasing their risk through everyday habits.

Some of these risk factors are obvious. Others may surprise you.

Here are six ways you may be raising your risk of heart disease—and what you can do to help protect your heart.

1. You Don't Exercise

Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, strengthen your heart, and improve circulation.

On the other hand, sitting for long periods has been shown to negatively affect blood sugar and fat metabolism, which may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis over time.

No more excuses—get your doctor's OK if needed and start working up a sweat.

If you have a desk job, make it a point to stand up and move throughout the day. Even a short walk during your lunch break can make a meaningful difference.

2. You Don't Get Enough Sleep

Research has shown that people who sleep fewer than six hours per night have a significantly higher risk of developing heart disease than those who regularly get around eight hours of sleep.

So if you're a night owl, it may be time to turn off the TV, step away from social media, and give your body the rest it needs.

If you struggle with sleep, try these simple habits:

• Avoid sugar, stimulants, and alcohol in the evening.

• Don't exercise too close to bedtime.

• Sip a cup of chamomile tea.

• Consider a melatonin supplement.

• Make your bedroom as dark as possible.

• Take a warm bath with Epsom salts.

• Go to bed at the same time each night.

• Avoid intense or upsetting television shows before bed.

3. You Rarely Floss

Most of us remember to brush our teeth—but flossing is another story.

Unfortunately, skipping the floss can come back to bite you.

Harmful bacteria in your mouth don't always stay there. They can enter your bloodstream, promote inflammation, and contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.

So if Ronald Reagan was President the last time you flossed, it's time to get going, my friend.

And while you're at it, be sure to schedule a professional dental cleaning at least once a year.

4. You Drink Diet Soda

Most people know that sugary soft drinks aren't doing their health any favors.

But don't assume diet soda is a healthy alternative.

In addition to the concerns surrounding artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose, research suggests that people who drink two or more diet sodas per day have a higher risk of developing heart failure.

5. You Avoid the Sun

Your body naturally produces vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Among its many important functions, vitamin D helps support a healthy inflammatory response—including within your arteries.

Unfortunately, many people avoid the sun altogether or wear sunscreen every time they step outside, limiting their body's ability to produce vitamin D naturally.

For many people, a moderate amount of sensible sun exposure can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels. If you'll be outside for an extended period, protect your skin with appropriate clothing or a quality sunscreen, and of course, avoid sunburn.

6. You Aren't Getting Enough Heart-Healthy Nutrients

Nutrition plays a foundational role in overall health, including the health of your cardiovascular system.

The good news is that supporting your heart often comes down to giving your body more of the nutrients it needs while cutting back on foods that work against it.

Focus on the Good—and Limit the Bad

Build your meals around whole, nutrient-dense foods such as:

• Fresh vegetables

• Fruits

• Quality meats and poultry

• Wild-caught fish

• Eggs

• Nuts

• Coconut oil

• Real butter (never, ever margarine)

At the same time, limit:

• Ultra-processed foods

• Fast food

• Refined sugars

• Industrial seed oils

And while we're clearing up common misconceptions, don't be afraid of naturally occurring saturated fats from foods like eggs, butter, and quality meats. Your body—including your heart and nervous system—needs healthy fats to function properly.

Support Your Heart with Key Nutrients

Three nutrients that play especially important roles in cardiovascular health are vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.

Vitamin D

As mentioned above, vitamin D helps support a healthy inflammatory response throughout the body, including within the cardiovascular system.

Because many people don't get enough sunlight—especially during the cooler months or in northern climates—a high-quality vitamin D supplement can help maintain healthy levels year-round.

Optimum D-K Formula with FruiteX-B® provides 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 per capsule, along with vitamins K1, K2, and boron—nutrients that work together to support healthy bones and cardiovascular function.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s have been shown to support healthy blood pressure, help maintain normal inflammatory responses, and promote healthy circulation.

VitalMega-3 delivers 1,200 mg of omega-3 fatty acids in every two-capsule serving, including EPA and DHA in the 3:2 ratio recommended by many experts.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 helps convert homocysteine into other beneficial compounds your body can safely use. When homocysteine levels become elevated, they may contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular risk.

Hydroxaden 2.5 provides vitamin B12 in a convenient liquid tincture that's administered under the tongue for efficient absorption.

If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or take prescription medications, it's a good idea to discuss new supplements with your healthcare provider to ensure they're appropriate for your individual needs.

By making a few healthy lifestyle changes and ensuring your body has the nutrients it needs, you can take meaningful steps toward supporting your cardiovascular health for years to come.

To your health,

Sherry Brescia