Not for the Faint-Hearted: 4 Surprising Factors That May Harm Your Heart

We all know the importance of maintaining heart health and staying completely away from anything that might harm it. However, in addition to the common problems we all know like poor diet, lack of physical activity, and increased nerve stimulation, there are some lesser-known issues that can also cause heart disorders and diseases - it is important to be aware of them:

Leading the list is the rather common issue of accumulated sleep deprivation. Various studies have shown that people who regularly get less than six hours of sleep per night tend to develop obesity and type 2 diabetes - two known enemies of the heart, which could not only lead to diseases but also to heart attacks, G-d forbid. So, what is the ideal? Between seven to nine hours, but not less than seven.

Another problem is various gum diseases: you may not have thought there was a connection, but you might be surprised to hear that many people who suffered from heart disease were also found to have dental and gum issues. The explanation is that bacteria from the teeth migrate into the bloodstream, reaching the heart and wreaking havoc there. So, what's the solution? Maintain oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and visiting the dentist every six months at least (even if you do not have any dental problems).

Snoring is also related to the heart, and if you are among those who snore or struggle to breathe while sleeping, you should consult a doctor and address the issue promptly. Many people who suffered from snoring discovered they actually suffered from a syndrome called sleep apnea, which occurs when airways are partially blocked, making regular breathing difficult, and potentially leading to problems such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, or other heart diseases.

Try not to get caught in traffic jams, accompanied by high noise levels and stress that could lead to a heart attack. Many studies indicate a link between being stuck in traffic and the likelihood of having a heart attack. If you can't avoid driving in traffic (like on your way home from work when you know the road is busy) - try listening to calming music, talking to a loved one on the phone, or think pleasant thoughts and practice guided imagery exercises during that time.

(Disclaimer: The advice published is based on studies and publications abroad. We do not guarantee the success of the methods described; we are merely bringing the information to your attention)