A new study from the American Heart Association has identified seven key factors that can lead to better overall health and well-being. These simple yet effective habits include not smoking, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood pressure, controlling blood sugar levels, and keeping cholesterol in check.
Researchers analyzed 483 studies on these seven factors, known as Life’s Simple 7, and found that adhering to at least three of them can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Even small changes, such as moving from obesity to overweight or adding physical activity, can have a profound impact on overall health.
According to the study, maintaining optimal levels of these seven factors was associated with benefits in various body systems beyond just cardiovascular health. For example, improving diet and exercise habits can help maintain brain and lung function, vision and hearing, and even teeth and muscle strength over time.
The American Heart Association has since updated its guidelines to Life’s Essential 8, which includes an eighth metric recognizing the importance of sleep in long-term health. The update emphasizes the need for individuals to make small yet achievable changes to their lifestyle habits.
Lead study author Dr. Liliana Aguayo notes that small improvements in diet, physical activity, and managing risk factors can have significant benefits for overall health. She encourages individuals to start making healthy changes today, emphasizing that it’s never too early or too late to take control of their well-being.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/16/health/heart-health-whole-body-wellness