Skip to main content

Heart Health Archive

Articles

Smart watch may improve detection of atrial fibrillation

Wearing an Apple Watch capable of recording an electrocardiogram may increase the detection of atrial fibrillation in older adults at increased risk for stroke, according to a 2026 study.

4 keys to a heart-healthy diet

The foundation of a heart-healthy diet should be minimally processed plant-based foods, which are good sources of fiber, protein, and phytonutrients. People should also limit saturated fat and make sure they consume omega-3 fatty acids.

Does everyone benefit from cutting saturated fat in their diet?

A review of 17 studies found that for people at high risk of heart disease, cutting down on saturated fats may have lowered their risk of major cardiac events over the next five years, but people at lower risk did not see similar benefits.

Aldosterone overload: An underappreciated contributor to high blood pressure

Elevated levels of aldosterone (a hormone that regulates water, sodium, and potassium in the body) is an underrecognized and undertreated contributor to high blood pressure.

Beyond statins: New ways to lower LDL cholesterol

Two medications now in development, enlicitide and obicetrapib, can lower harmful LDL cholesterol and may be promising options for people who cannot tolerate statins or who still have high LDL despite their current treatment.

For now, electric cars appear safe for people with implanted heart devices

A 2025 review of past research found that electromagnetic field exposure from electric cars poses no immediate health risks for people with implanted heart devices, such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.

Reversing prediabetes may slash heart disease risk by half

People with prediabetes who successfully lower their blood sugar back to normal levels may cut their future risk of death due to heart disease by half, according to a 2025 study.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

Don’t miss out on your 25% off promo code and BONUS GIFT worth $29.95.

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to lessen digestion problems…keep inflammation under control…learn simple exercises to improve your balance…understand your options for cataract treatment…all delivered to your email box FREE.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus get a FREE on-line course Inflammation and Diet: How food can lower disease risk. No purchase necessary.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus get a FREE on-line course Inflammation and Diet: How food can lower disease risk. No purchase necessary.