By National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute –
Supporting cardiovascular health is important at every age, and early influences can improve health outcomes years later
As the body ages, lots of changes happen that can increase a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease. Blood vessels narrow. Arteries stiffen. Cell mutations can occur, while genes can influence fate. Fortunately, researchers have found that there’s a lot people can do to reduce the negative effects of these changes — and it’s never too early or too late to start. In fact, the steps people take to support a healthy heart early in life can do wonders to support their cardiovascular function later on.