Cancer has overtaken heart disease as the number one killer for women in the UK. However in the United States, heart conditions are still the number one concern.

There are several things that women can do to make sure that our hearts go on beating healthily. There are always special circumstances of course but unlike cancer, making gradual changes in lifestyle activities will make a difference.

Smoking

This may sound obvious but did you know that smoking is not only responsible for heart attacks and other heart related diseases but also hypertension, high blood pressure and strokes. If that isn't enough incentive to give up smoking... Love your heart!

Keeping Fit

Exercising gives positive results. Try walking or some form of physical activity for about thirty minutes everyday. If that sounds too much, then don't just give up, start with ten minutes and build up slowly and before long the benefits will be obvious and you will actually look forward to your daily exercise boost. Not only will exercise help your heart, it can help to reduce high blood pressure but it would be a good idea to monitor your blood levels at all time or if you are on medication, check with your doctor. With all that said, exercise will make you look better and feel better. Pump your heart!

Healthy Diet

It is great to have a 'hearty' meal but watch what you serve on your plate. Eat fresh fruit and vegetables, lean meat, whole grains and dairy products. In a recent report, an article appearing on the American Chemical Society's Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry the author Duo Li states that Vegans are also at risk of heart disease owing to a lack of omega-3 and B12. Eating walnuts and taking the B12 as a supplement is recommended. Feed your heart!

Alcohol

If you can withstand from drinking alcohol that would be preferred, otherwise women should limit themselves to alcoholic drink a day. Sober your heart!

A further search revealed two quirky suggestions to preventing heart disease:
 

Dental Flossing

Recent studies have suggested that there is a link between gum disease and heart disease. It is possible for bacteria to damage blood vessels and leading to clots.

Animal Magic

In America following a ten year study, it was found that having a pet actually reduced stress related illnesses which can be responsible for heart attacks.