Surprising ways to keep your heart strong

By Kasia Kurek 1. Wake up with a buzz. The one from your alarm clock, that is. Chances are you already know that skimping on sleep can double your risk for heart disease. But that doesn’t mean you should be waking up at dinnertime on weekends. While sleeping in might sound good after a week of early mornings, playing catch-up could also be hurting your heart. That’s because researchers have linked too much sleep to cardiovascular disease. So set your alarm to allow between seven and eight hours of ZZZs, and sleep easy. BONUS: Your muscles recover while you sleep, so getting the right amount of shut-eye can also help your gains in the gym. 2. String along. Poor oral health can lead to gum disease, which can make you more likely to develop heart disease. Keep your mouth – and your heart – in top shape by flossing daily. Throw a pack of dental floss and a toothbrush into your gym bag and always use them after your workout. Pairing it with another activity such as your training will make it easier for you to remember to do it. BONUS: The minty aftertaste might keep you from mindless snacking after your gym session. 3. Beat the rush. Sitting in traffic can make you more susceptible to a heart attack, say German researchers, whether you’re stuck behind the wheel or taking public transit. The study’s authors say exhaust and air pollution might be to blame, so steer clear of rush hour whenever possible. If you’ve got a gym around your workplace, leave the house an hour earlier – just in time to beat the morning rush and pack in a few sets of weights before 9 a.m. BONUS: Ditching traffic will also lower your stress levels.

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