Final answer:
A sedentary lifestyle and high trans-fat diets are primary factors in the increase of heart disease, which can be exacerbated by a decrease in metabolic rate. Healthy living practices, including engaging in physical activity and consuming a diet rich in dietary fiber and plant polyphenols, can help mitigate these risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and high trans-fat diets have been identified by cardiologists as primary reasons for the increase in heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States. A reduction in metabolic rate may lead to various health issues, including heart disease and increased mortality. It is essential to understand that heart disease is influenced by multiple risk factors, such as high cholesterol levels, obesity, and high blood pressure. These conditions strain the cardiovascular system and can lead to complications such as atherosclerosis and coronary disease.
An aspect of lifestyle that directly impacts heart health is diet. Restricting caloric intake, as shown in animal studies, may lead to a reduced risk of tumor growth and an increase in lifespan due to less oxidation and subsequent damage to DNA. Moreover, diets rich in dietary fiber and plant polyphenols can be beneficial as they are metabolized by the gut microflora into compounds that help in preventing impaired lipid metabolism and vascular dysfunction, which are common in coronary heart disease and type II diabetes.
The lack of physical activity and consumption of unhealthy fats is known to reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the body's organs and tissues, aggravating heart conditions and leading to symptoms that can result in hospital admissions and emergency department visits. It's important to be proactive in maintaining heart health by engaging in regular physical activity, managing weight, and following a balanced diet low in trans-fats.