Our hearts are remarkable organs, working hard every day to help keep us alive and kicking—that’s why it’s so important to look after yours! Here are 10 facts about the human heart, how it functions and ways to help keep it (and the rest of the body) happy and healthy.
- Tick tock
The average heart beats about 100,000 times every day. That’s about 3 billion beats in a lifetime. - The heart’s highway
The aorta is the largest artery in the body. It’s about the same width as a garden hose and carries blood away from the heart. - Small but mighty
A human heart is about the size of a fist and weighs less than half a kilo—pretty small for such a hard-working organ! - A national issue
Unfortunately, heart disease, stroke and other related conditions are leading causes of death in New Zealand. They make up about 30% of all deaths in our nation each year. - Women vs. men
Heart attack symptoms are often different for women than they are for men. Women may be more likely to have a heart attack without experiencing chest discomfort. Some women may not realise they’re experiencing a heart attack at all! - Heart surgery history
The first successful open-heart surgery was performed by Dr. Daniel Hale Williams in 1893. He was one of the few African-American surgeons in the United States at the time. - A healthy choice
Being smoke free is one of the best ways to help protect your heart health. Smokers are twice as likely to have a heart attack and three times more likely to suffer a stroke than non-smokers. - Step by step
Daily exercise, such as taking a brisk walk for 30 minutes every day, could help lower your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. - Racing around your body
During exercise, blood travels from your heart to your big toe and back in about 10 seconds. - The best medicine
A good laugh can send up to 20% more blood flowing through your body. This could be why laughter can be such a great stress reliever!
Being smart about eating salt is another way to help keep your heart healthy. Check out these unlikely foods that are high in sodium to get started.
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
Sources:
Biography, Daniel Hale Williams
Heart Research Institute NZ website
Heart Foundation NZ website; Heart Foundation AU website
WebMD, Amazing Facts About Heart Health and Heart Disease
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