Which lifestyle factor is critical in reducing cardiac risk?

Engaging in regular exercise is a key lifestyle factor that significantly reduces cardiac risk. Physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. It can also lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), and increase good cholesterol (HDL), all of which contribute to overall cardiovascular health. Furthermore, exercise aids in stress reduction and improves metabolic health, which are important in preventing heart disease.

While factors like height and weight, family vacation habits, and reading before bed can play roles in overall health, they do not directly address cardiac risk as effectively as regular exercise does. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, but it is often the physical activity that leads to weight management, making exercise critical for cardiac health specifically.