Heart disease is a leading killer for both men and women. Yet, for some reason, this silent killer receives more attention for its effects on men than it does on women. This is particularly disturbing because research is needed for both sexes in order to properly prevent and treat the disease.

Why, you ask? The answer is simple. The signs and symptoms of heart disease are often different for men than for women. In addition, the risk factors can be different and even the treatment plans can be different for each sex. In fact, it wasn’t until recently that artificial hearts were made to be small enough to fit into the chests of most women. So, this meant that women in need of an artificial heart were simply out of luck.

Of course, there are many diseases out there that affect just men or just women. Women have long been complaining – and rightfully so – that more attention is being paid to those diseases that affect primarily men. Heart disease is one such disease. Now, there is no doubt that the research being done on heart disease as it relates to men will likely benefit women as well. Nonetheless, more research is needed that specifically focuses on the disease and women.

In the meantime, there are several things you can do in order to keep your heart healthy – whether you are a man or a woman. The first thing to do is to eat healthy. Avoid foods that are high in fat and make sure you get plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet.

In addition to eating healthy, you also need to get plenty of exercise. Try to squeeze in at least 15 minutes of aerobic exercise every day. If you are really out of shape, just start off with taking a walk every day. Then, slowly increase the distance you are walking and the amount of cardio exercise you get each day. Your heart will thank you.

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Tags: Healthy Living //