Which lifestyle change is most beneficial in reducing cardiac risk factors?

Regular exercise plays a crucial role in reducing cardiac risk factors by improving overall cardiovascular health. Engaging in consistent physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, enhances blood circulation, and helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Exercise also aids in weight management, reduces the risk of obesity, and improves insulin sensitivity, making it a key factor in managing or preventing diabetes—an important risk factor for heart disease.

Furthermore, regular physical activity has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels, contributing to better overall mental health, which is also linked to heart health. Collectively, these benefits significantly lower the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, making regular exercise a cornerstone of a heart-healthy lifestyle.

The other options either contribute to increased cardiac risk or do not have the same level of beneficial impact on cardiovascular health. For instance, increased alcohol intake can lead to higher blood pressure and other heart-related issues, smoking cessation is beneficial but often seen as a step towards improving health rather than a direct lifestyle change like regular exercise, and a high sugar diet contributes to numerous health problems, including obesity and diabetes, both of which elevate cardiac risk.