Every month we will be featuring experts from across our healthcare system to share tips and tricks with us on how to live healthier lives.

4 Tips to Keep Your Heart Young

Dr. John Mandrola, a cardiologist at Baptist Health Louisville, offers these tips to keep your heart young:

Get Your Eight Hours

“Sleep is highly underappreciated. You could fill a book with references to studies that show the benefits of sleep. Most problems are either improved or eliminated with adequate sleep,” Dr. Mandrola said.

Turn That Frown Upside Down

“Smile. It’s good for the heart. This isn’t a soft recommendation; there is compelling data that one’s approach to stress is associated with stroke and other cardiovascular outcomes.”

Find A Workout You Love

When exercise is enjoyable, you’re more likely to do it. So if that treadmill is boring you to tears, try something different, like a group fitness class or an outdoor activity.

Learn How To Eat Right

With so much misinformation out there, it’s difficult to know what foods are actually healthy. If you’re confused, talk to your doctor or a nutritionist — don’t rely on food packaging claims.

How Healthy is Your Heart?

Find out by taking our free heart disease health assessment and stay a step ahead of your health.