Cardiologist says 'stress is always a factor’ in heart attacks; shares 9 simple lifestyle tips to safeguard your heart

Heart attacks remain one of the leading health concerns worldwide, yet many are preventable with the right lifestyle choices. With today’s busy routines, poor diets, and constant stress, heart health often takes a back seat until it’s too late. The reality is that heart attacks can strike without warning, but the good news is that simple preventive steps can go a long way in reducing the risk.
Dr. Jack Wolfson, Cardiologist and founder of Natural Heart Doctor, highlighted in his June 20 Instagram post that stress is “always a factor” in heart attacks. Having treated hundreds of patients, he emphasizes that while medical interventions play a role, lifestyle choices are equally crucial. He also shared nine practical tips to strengthen the heart and overall well-being.
1. Get rid of plastic
Plastic exposure has been linked to numerous health concerns, including cardiovascular problems. Dr. Jack suggests minimizing plastic use as much as possible whether it’s in food storage, water bottles, or packaging to protect your long-term health.
2. Eat more seafood
Seafood, especially fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is one of the healthiest foods for the heart. “People with the highest levels of omega-3 have the lowest risk of everything,” Dr. Jack notes. Adding fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel to your diet can significantly lower heart disease risk.
3. Get more sunshine
Sun exposure is not just good for Vitamin D; according to Dr. Jack, it helps reverse plaque, prevents heart attacks, and lowers stroke risk. Safe daily sun exposure supports cardiovascular health naturally.
4. Improve your sleep quality
Quality sleep is a cornerstone of heart health. Dr. Jack even suggests practices like “mouth taping” to encourage proper nasal breathing and deeper sleep. Prioritizing rest allows the body to repair and reduces heart strain.
5. Move more
Physical activity keeps the heart strong. Whether it’s hiking, biking, walking, kayaking, or simple muscle-building activities, regular movement is essential. Dr. Jack encourages people to “just move more” to keep circulation healthy and stress levels in check.
6. Reduce your stress levels
Stress, Dr. Jack warns, is always a factor in heart attacks. Chronic stress increases blood pressure, triggers inflammation, and strains the cardiovascular system. Mindfulness practices, meditation, and work-life balance can significantly reduce this risk.
7. Avoid water-damaged mold or bacteria
Environmental factors can also impact heart health. Living in damp or moldy environments exposes the body to harmful bacteria and toxins. Dr. Jack advises testing both your home and yourself for mold-related risks.
8. Test yourself regularly
Prevention also means awareness. Dr. Jack recommends regular check-ups for inflammation, oxidative stress, homocysteine, lipoprotein(a), vitamin and mineral levels, and environmental toxins. Early detection allows for timely lifestyle or medical interventions.
9. Limit EMF exposure
Modern technology brings convenience but also potential risks. Dr. Jack suggests reducing exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) by avoiding carrying your phone close to the body, turning off Wi-Fi at night, and skipping wireless earbuds. These small adjustments may reduce stress on your cardiovascular system.
Final Thoughts
Heart attacks may be on the rise, but prevention is within our control. By making conscious lifestyle changes from eating better and sleeping well to reducing stress and minimizing environmental risks you can significantly safeguard your heart. As Dr. Jack Wolfson stresses, most heart attacks are preventable, and it starts with the daily choices you make.