What Are the Benefits of Good Heart Health?

Organizations such as the American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health have long encouraged individuals to undertake some form of physical activity to improve heart health. There's little doubt that the busiest muscle in the body is indeed the most important, as a well-functioning heart pumps nearly 2,000 gallons daily, delivering fresh blood throughout the body via a complex system of arteries, capillaries, veins and venules.

Lower Blood Pressure

Blood pressure refers to the amount of pressure inside the arteries and veins every time the heart beats (pumps). Systolic is the pressure in the arteries; diastolic is the pressure in the veins. The benefit of having a healthy heart in relation to blood pressure is absence of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. If left untreated, high blood pressure can potentially damage not only heart function but kidneys as well, factors that can usually be averted with a healthy heart.

Increased Cardio Efficiency

Since the heart is tasked with distributing fresh blood throughout the body and aiding in reoxygenating blood returning through the veins, a healthy heart ensures this process works in peak condition. The effects of a well-tuned cardiovascular process can be felt during daily activities, as a healthy heart contributes to overall endurance while performing everyday tasks and especially in recreational and athletic exercise.

Disease Resistance

Heart diseases such as atherosclerosis, as well as renal disease and stroke risk factors, are all negative possibilities from having an unhealthy heart. Improved heart function helps reduce risk factors associated with these diseases. Because proper exercise and nutrition help resist heart disease other diseases that can co-exist and contribute to obesity and type 2 diabetes are addressed as well.

Stress Relief

The efforts put forth in improving heart health help alleviate stress as well. Exercise releases tension and promotes endorphin production. Although stress comes from both internal and external sources, a healthy heart means that daily workout aids in lowering blood pressure, one factor that contributes to elevated stress levels.

A Healthy Heart

Exercise and a diet that includes heart friendly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Activities performed daily that elevate the heart rate for at least 20 minutes are ideal to improving cardiovascular function. Running or brisk walking and swimming are popular exercise choices that doctors recommend for improving heart health.