
Reduce your salt intake.
High sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, the average adult should consume only about a teaspoon of salt each day. A good way to start controlling your sodium intake is to read the nutrition labels on food products you purchase. Canned items such as canned soups, as well as packaged meats, breads, or other processed foods, can contain as much as 70% of your recommended sodium in just one serving.

If you experience chronic stress and you don’t try to reduce it, then you are increasing your risk of insomnia, depression, obesity, heart disease, and more. One way to destress is to make time for activities you enjoy and take some time to reconnect with loved ones. The American Institute of Stress also suggests incorporating daily breathing exercises such as “abdominal breathing.”

The American Heart Association recommends the average adult take at least 10,000 steps a day or 30 minutes of activity a day to stay heart healthy. You don’t even need to join a gym to increase your physical activity. Committing to taking a daily walk of 30 minutes is a great way to start. Also consider joining a local sports team or add recreational activities like hiking or biking to your life.