The health body explains: “Chemicals in tobacco can damage your heart and blood vessels. Cigarette smoke reduces the oxygen in your blood, which increases your blood pressure and heart rate because your heart has to work harder to supply enough oxygen to your body and brain.”
Fortunately, as it explains, your risk of heart disease starts to drop in as little as a day after quitting.
“After a year without cigarettes, your risk of heart disease drops to about half that of a smoker.”
According to research, engaging in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity leisure activity per week also slashes heart disease risk.