Simple Yet Powerful Habits to Keep Your Heart in Peak Condition

17. Prioritizing Dental Health

Your mouth and heart are more connected than you might think. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, likely due to chronic inflammation and harmful bacteria entering the bloodstream. Maintaining good oral hygiene—brushing and flossing daily, and seeing your dentist regularly—isn’t just about a healthy smile. It’s also a way to reduce the inflammation that can affect your entire cardiovascular system. Flossing may seem small, but it’s a surprisingly impactful daily habit for your heart.

18. Embracing Plant-Based or Plant-Forward Eating

You don’t need to go fully vegetarian or vegan to reap the heart benefits of plant-based eating. A “plant-forward” approach—prioritizing vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds—has been shown to lower cholesterol, improve blood pressure, and reduce plaque buildup in arteries. Even small changes, like having one meatless day per week or swapping meat for lentils in a stew, can make a big difference. Aim to fill at least half your plate with plant foods at every meal. Your heart will thank you.