...now change YOUR life with these top tips

KEEPING your heart healthy does not have to mean hours on the treadmill or drastic diets – even small changes can help to make a big difference.

Here are some top tips to try, from Heart Research UK’s head of healthy hearts, Alexandra Preston.

Instead of taking the lift, give your heart a mini-workout and try using the stairs.

It will burn calories, build muscle – and is probably quicker.

You might try a bigger challenge, such as working up to taking 10,000 steps a day. Even getting up once every hour to stretch – for example, during a busy day in the office or a relaxing evening with a box set – will help.

If you are peckish, try snacking on homemade popcorn instead of on sweets or chocolate. This will save money and calories, and you can add your own toppings. Try cinnamon, chilli or dried fruit.

Aim for two portions of fish a week, including one of oily fish, which contains Omega-3 fats that help to prevent heart disease. Cook something delicious from scratch with your favourite ingredients. Drink enough water and get a good night’s rest, which can help hearts stay healthy.

Cut back on – or quit – smoking, drinking or takeaways. Keep a money jar and see how much you will save.

And it is not only yourself you can help. Simply saying thank you to someone could help their heart stay healthy.

Lack of recognition and gratitude can lead to low morale and an increased risk of depression for some, which in turn is associated with poor physical health and heart disease.