5 ways to a man's healthier heart

Over 70% of all sudden heart problems occur in men.

"Many people think they are victims of their genes, but research shows that the vast majority of your risk for heart disease is due to lifestyle choices, says Harvey Hahn, MD, a cardiologist with Kettering and Sycamore medical centers. "By focusing on just five areas of your life, you can reduce your chance of heart attack by almost 80%!"

Quit Smoking

The number one way for men to lower their risk of heart attack is by not smoking. Men who smoke have a whopping 36% higher risk of cardiac arrest.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Men who maintain a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, reduced-fat dairy products, and whole grains have a significantly lower risk of heart attack.

Reduce Belly Fat

Carrying extra weight around the midsection is a characteristic of men who suffer heart attacks. A waist size of 38 inches or lower is associated with fewer heart attacks.

Limit Your Alcohol Intake

If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to one to two drinks a day or less.

Stay Active

Find a way to be physically active for 30 minutes a day. Whether you go for a walk or spend the afternoon working in the yard, being consistently active on a daily basis is key.

These five factors were found to reduce heart attack risk in men by almost 80% according to a recent study following 20,000 men for 11 years.

Do you want to learn more about the symptoms of a heart attack and find out just how much your heart is worth? Take the Kettering Health Network's Risk Quiz.