Looking to shield your heart from danger? A surgeon has shared a straightforward yet powerful daily habit that could dramatically cut your risk of a heart attack: just 30 minutes of brisk walking!

For years, the benefits of regular physical activity have been clear. It reduces the likelihood of severe health conditions like heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. The NHS recommends that adults engage in physical exercises daily, ideally achieving 150 minutes a week through a mix of aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

Now, Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist from the US, is emphasizing the critical role of daily movement in our lives. In a viral Instagram video, viewed by over 3.6 million people, he pointed out a crucial fact: 'Most doctors never mention this.' He explained, 'You don’t have just one heart; you have two. Your primary heart beats in your chest, while your second heart resides in your calves.' Every step you take, every heel raise, and muscle squeeze contributes to blood circulation, preventing dangerous clots that can lead to heart problems.

Unfortunately, our sedentary lifestyle is taking a toll, with more hours spent sitting and less movement in our daily routines. As we age, we begin to lose muscle strength, placing even more strain on our heart.

Dr. Yaranov advises, 'Don't wait for a health scare to start moving. Walk daily, do heel raises at your desk, embrace the stairs, and keep your calf muscles robust for lifelong health. Your future self will thank you!'

Research highlights that walking as little as 7,000 steps daily can significantly lower the risk of heart disease, dementia, and some cancers, contradicting the 10,000-step rule once held as the gold standard.

Additionally, recent studies indicate that the speed at which you walk might be equally important. A study of over 79,850 adults showed that a quick walk yields better health benefits than walking slowly for extended periods.

This advice comes in light of alarming statistics regarding heart-related deaths in the UK, which have surged by 18% since 2019. The British Heart Foundation reports a record increase in heart failure diagnoses and a staggering rise in waiting lists for cardiac treatments across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Experts attribute this worrying trend to factors such as the rise in unhealthy diets, the lingering effects of COVID-19 on heart health, and disruptions to healthcare routines. As we move forward, prioritizing simple, healthy habits like walking could be our best defense against these rising statistics.