Simple Moves That Boost Men’s Heart Health

When it comes to matters of the heart–medical ones, anyway–middle-aged men don’t want any surprises. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men in the U.S., accounting for 1 in 4 deaths of men of all ages. The good news is that scientists have a better understanding than ever before about which tried-and-true behaviors truly do–and which do not–keep the heart healthy. For instance, research still shows that fitness is good for the heart, with a recent study finding that people who exercise in middle age are less likely to have a heart attack. However, a new survey published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that even though the U.S. government doesn’t recommend a daily aspirin for adults who haven’t had a heart attack–it can increase the risk of internal bleeding–more than half of adults of middle age and older pop one every day or two in the hopes of preventing a heart attack or stroke. But in addition to moderate exercise and a healthy diet, there are plenty of things men can do to protect their most vital organ. Here are six, supported by new science.