In a world where social media is flooded with dance challenges and lip-syncing videos, it may seem unlikely to come across a viral TikTok video that offers valuable medical advice. However, that’s exactly what happened when Dr. Evan S. Levine, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai Health in Scarsdale, posted a video outlining 10 practical tips to prevent heart attacks before the age of 60.

With heart disease being the leading cause of death globally, it’s crucial to take proactive measures to protect our hearts. And who better to guide us than a renowned cardiologist with years of experience in treating heart-related issues? In his TikTok video, Dr. Levine shares his knowledge and insights on how we can make simple lifestyle changes to keep our hearts healthy and strong.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the 10 tips shared by Dr. Levine that can help prevent heart attacks before the age of 60.

1. Quit Smoking: The first and most crucial step towards a healthy heart is to give up smoking. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that can damage your blood vessels, increase your blood pressure, and raise your risk of heart disease. Dr. Levine strongly advises against smoking and urges everyone to quit this habit immediately.

2. Exercise Regularly: We’ve all heard the saying, “sitting is the new smoking.” Dr. Levine stresses the importance of staying active and recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, five days a week. This can include activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming. Regular exercise not only keeps our hearts healthy but also helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces stress levels.

3. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: The food we consume plays a significant role in our heart health. Dr. Levine suggests including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats in our diet. He also advises limiting our intake of processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks, which can increase our risk of heart disease.

4. Keep Your Cholesterol in Check: High levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the buildup of plaque in our arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. Dr. Levine recommends getting our cholesterol levels checked regularly and making necessary dietary changes or taking medication if needed.

5. Manage Your Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Dr. Levine advises keeping a check on our blood pressure and taking medication if required. He also suggests incorporating stress-relieving activities like meditation or yoga into our daily routine to help lower blood pressure.

6. Control Your Blood Sugar: Uncontrolled diabetes can significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Dr. Levine recommends maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and following a balanced diet to keep blood sugar levels in check.

7. Get Enough Sleep: In today’s fast-paced world, sleep is often neglected, but it plays a vital role in our overall health, including our heart health. Dr. Levine stresses the importance of getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to help our bodies repair and recharge.

8. Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on our heart health. Dr. Levine suggests finding healthy ways to manage stress, like exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. He also advises seeking professional help if we feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with stress.

9. Limit Alcohol Intake: While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, excessive drinking can increase the risk of heart disease. Dr. Levine recommends limiting our alcohol intake and not exceeding more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

10. Get Regular Check-Ups: Last but not least, Dr. Levine emphasizes the importance of getting regular check-ups with a primary care physician. This allows early detection and treatment of any underlying health conditions that can affect our heart.

In conclusion, Dr. Levine’s 10 practical tips to prevent heart attacks before the age of 60 are rooted in lifestyle changes and medical insights. By following these simple but essential steps, we can take control of our heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. So let’s take a cue from this viral TikTok video and make these changes for a healthier future. After all, as Dr. Levine says, “your heart will thank you.”