What Top Heart Docs Do to Stay Healthy

There was an excellent story in this month's Women's Health about what top cardiologists recommend for keeping your heart in good shape...Check out the whole story written by Olivia Luppino in the magazine - I've summarized the talking points below:

1. Scoring enough sleep - Good sleep is associated with lower death rates from cardiovascular diseases - Cardiologist recommend 7-9 hours as ideal with a set time to go to bed each night and limiting using electronics including television before bed for better sleep habits.

2. Being Consistent with Exercise - Spending 75-150 minutes per week biking, riding swimming or brisk walks lovers your risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by up to 31 percent. Find an exercise partner to keep you motivated and accountable.

3. Eating Well when Eating Out - Don't order off the main menu - it's probably going to be too much food - order a few appetizers instead - opt for plant based rich in heart healthy oils like olive oil - go light on sweets, processed foods and red meat.

4. Staying Positive - Journal - Being optimistic about life is associated with a 35 percent lower risk of cardiovascular events. Journaling keeps your mind active and off negative thinking.

5. Find Time for Working Out - Easier said than done - but even short "exercise snacks" are effective for heart health - park farther out in the lot, walk at lunch, take the stairs - just find opportunities for movement during the day.

6. Keeping Active - Even With Injuries - Get ahead of flare-ups - learn some physical therapy stretches including the classic cat-cow. Even 10-12 minutes a day doing stretches will keep you out of the bad back club.