Heart health is a complex interplay of multiple lifestyle factors, and maintaining balance across these elements is essential for long-term cardiovascular well-being. Dr. Jeremy London, a cardiothoracic surgeon based in Georgia, has highlighted that while individual aspects such as diet, exercise, and sleep are important, their collective impact is what ultimately determines heart health. Poor sleep, for instance, can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, leading to increased appetite and reduced metabolic efficiency, which in turn can contribute to weight gain and obesity—a known risk factor for cardiovascular issues. London further explained that lack of physical activity or an unhealthy diet can drive systemic inflammation, which is a key contributor to the development of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
London stressed that focusing on a single aspect, such as diet, may not be sufficient to address the root causes of heart-related problems. For example, even a person who eats well may still suffer from high cholesterol or other cardiovascular markers if they are not managing their sleep quality or physical activity levels. He emphasized the importance of identifying the specific lifestyle factor that most significantly impacts an individual’s health.