And when depression is present, the link is even stronger.
And a new study backs this up.
The BRFSS contains multiple national surveys that are completed annually by civilian, noninstitutionalized adults 18 and older.
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Research has shown the BRFSS to be a reliable, valid way to gather information.
The 2020 survey included questions on heart disease, sleep and exercise habits, and depression.
The questions included specific parameters to help researchers get more precise self-reported data.
For example, sufficient sleep was defined as seven or more hours in a 24-hour period.
What Does This Study Show?
The results were pretty straightforward.
Those who were getting insufficient sleep and no exercise were at higher risk of heart disease.
And depression on its own was also associated with heart disease.
The odds of getting heart disease were increased in both groups but were greater in the group with depression.
Why Does This Matter?
Heart disease still claims the top spot as the No.
1 cause of death for Americans, per theCDC.
Take just sleep, for example.
Anotherrecent studysuggests that insomnia alone may increase your risk of having a heart attack by 69%.
Obstructive sleep apnea, another sleep disorder, also may increase heart disease risk.
People who are depressed also tend to not sleep well and avoid exercise.
How Does This Apply to Real Life?
Changing your habits can be toughbut you’re able to take steps to make it easier.
Its important when changing a habit to know what result you want and why.
And its important to get to your deeperand truerwhy.
First, ask yourself why you want to make this change.
Then this becomes your anchoryour reminder of why youre doing this.
For example, swap your daily soda for sparkling water.
Or try adding a piece of fruit to your morning snack.
Maybe block off your calendar for 15 minutes after lunch for a walk.
The most important part is that your healthy lifestyle changes are enjoyable and sustainable for you.
Every little bit helps!
Before you know it, youll have created a new healthy habitand your heart will be happier, too.
