ArcaMax

More than 61% of Americans (about 184 million people) are projected to have cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). And today, CVD is the leading cause of death in the U.S. -- often because of Type 2 diabetes, overweight and obesity, chronic stress, inactivity, excessive alcohol use and an unhealthy diet.

But research is offering new insights into how to reduce your risks.

1. A recent intervention study shows that if you have heart disease, taking a daily dose of vitamin D that brings your blood level of the vitamin/hormone up to 40-80 ng/mL reduces your heart attack risk by at least 10% and maybe as high as 50%. (Most study participants had to take 5,000 IU daily to gain optimal levels.)

2. A scientific statement from the AHA says that when you eat, exercise and sleep is as important as doing it. That's because disrupting your circadian rhythm harms digestion, lipid processing, body temperature, hormone release, and ups your risk of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and CVD. So, keep a consistent -- and sufficient -- sleep schedule and eat most food and exercise earlier in the day.

And take this to heart: Achieve the "6 Normals+2": Make sure your blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, lousy LDL cholesterol levels and your waist circumference to height ratio are in a healthy range. Don't smoke or vape or hang around folks who do; control stress; see a primary care physician; and keep yearly screenings up to date.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.