According to a recent study in The Lancet, after age 45 you have a 20% to 33% chance of developing atrial fibrillation (A-fib) — an irregular and often very rapid heartbeat. That can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as stroke and heart failure.
In fact, a newer study in the journal Neurology shows that people with A-fib are almost five times more likely to have a severe stroke than those without the condition.
There’s also evidence that A-fib is associated with around a 30% greater risk of dementia, independent of stroke.
But some everyday activities can do a lot to reduce your risk.
According to research from NYU Langone Health, which was presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, something as simple as 2.5 to 5 hours a week of moderate to vigorous housecleaning reduces the risk of A-fib by 60%.
Walking is equally beneficial.
And the more you move, the greater the protection. Getting more than five hours of exercise a week reduced A-fib risk by 65%
Other ways to reduce your risk of A-fib include not smoking (anything), getting sleep apnea treated, avoiding excess alcohol consumption, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, preventing or controlling high blood pressure, and avoiding, controlling, or reversing Type 2 diabetes.
For more ways to protect your cardiovascular health, check out the innovations outlined in Dr. Mike's book "The Great Age Reboot."