Relying on natural remedies for heart health may help reduce your risk of a stroke or heart attack. Popular holistic options for aging and heart health include exercising and eating a balanced diet.
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease has a 100-year reign as the leading cause of death. Stroke is the fifth-leading cause. Despite this, 51% of Americans aren't aware that heart disease is the top cause of death in the country.
A few lifestyle changes may help improve your heart health and longevity during your retirement in Oakland, CA. Popular holistic heart care options include diet and exercise.
How else can you protect your heart, and what symptoms should you watch out for? Read on to find out.
Lifestyle factors that may trigger heart failure include:
These habits may cause coronary heart disease (CAD) and hypertension. They can also increase your risk of diabetes and sleep apnea. These underlying heart conditions may increase your risk of heart failure.
Adjusting your lifestyle may help protect your heart and overall health.Here are a few natural ways to improve heart function.
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was named the "Best Heart-Healthy Diet" and "Best Diet for High Blood Pressure" by the US News & World Report in 2025. It entails:
Switching to the DASH diet may help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Prioritize eating whole foods, like fruits and vegetables.
Before making major changes to your diet, consult a doctor or nutritionist. They can help you develop a meal plan based on your nutritional needs.
Explore your senior living community's dining program for nutritious, delicious dishes. Try eating with friends more often. They can hold you accountable to make healthier decisions.
A sedentary lifestyle may increase your risk of heart disease. Instead, add 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and two strength training sessions to your weekly routine.
Exercising can get your heart pumping, which may help you maintain a healthy weight. It could help lower your blood pressure and glucose levels.
Explore your senior living community's fitness program for exercise classes, such as:
Having high blood pressure may increase your risk of heart disease. You can potentially lower your blood pressure with herbs like:
Basil contains eugenol, an antioxidant that may support blood vessel relaxation. Parsley contains vitamin C, which may help reduce bad LDL cholesterol (which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease).
Sea buckthorn may help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Garlic may help increase blood flow and relax blood vessels to lower high blood pressure.
Consult your doctor before taking supplements, especially if you're taking prescribed medications. They'll ensure you avoid potentially dangerous interactions.
Instead of applying these tips for aging and heart health alone, consider moving into a senior living community. You can rely on their exclusive senior lifestyle programs, including:
Relying on these services may help lower your stress levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can trigger inflammation, which may increase your risk of heart disease.
Instead, make time for enjoyment in your life. Explore new hobbies through your community's events and activities calendar, including:
Use these events and activities to make new friends. Maintaining strong friendships can reduce your risk of social isolation and loneliness.Both are associated with an increased risk for heart disease.
You can also relieve stress by:
To improve your heart health, cardiologists recommend avoiding foods high in trans fat, sodium, and sugar. These foods may include:
These foods can trigger inflammation, the body's immune response. Inflammation is linked with heart disease and other chronic health conditions.
To adjust your diet with heart health in mind, consider eating whole foods. Fruits contain antioxidants, which can have a protective, anti-inflammatory effect.
Early signs of blocked arteries can include:
Inform a doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms. They'll run tests to determine if you have atherosclerosis (a hardening of your arteries from plaque build-up).
Using these natural remedies for heart health may help reduce your risk of a stroke or heart attack. Consider consulting your doctor to develop a personalized approach to improving your heart health. Remember, you can find more senior wellness tips and resources through your Oakland senior living community.
The Point at Rockridge offers a blend of privacy, safety, security, and community in a warm environment. The Discovery Senior Living family of management companies, which includes our community, was voted number one in Customer Satisfaction Among Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities in the JD Power 2025 US Senior Living Satisfaction Study.
Discover our signature programs, including outings and activities through Vibrant Life and home-style meals through Elevate Dining. Contact us now to schedule your tour.