Let's call a spade a spade here and just say it: If you're obese, consume too much salt in your diet, don't exercise, eat foods high in bad fats and high G.I. carbs, and smoke -- then chances are it's not too healthy. That being said, it stands to reason that if you can look at all of those things I just mentioned and honestly say that the opposite of each applies to you, your heart should be in tip-top shape. Right?

Right. And wrong ... maybe. Allow me to explain. Recent studies show that people who eat right, exercise, and live relatively healthy lives may still be at risk of heart attack. The reason(s) why fall outside of what people may typically associate as risk factors. For starters, are you depressed? If so, you may be at an increased risk. What about your red blood count? Is it low? If it is, this is further cause for at least some concern. And, do you have irregular or insufficient sleep? Again, this may throw you into the risk pool. Lastly -- and this is probably one of the last things you thought of when it comes to heart health -- do you floss on a regular basis? Because inflammation in the gums can lead to inflammation throughout the body, gum disease can increase your chances of having a heart attack.

All this adds up to the realization that we must be extremely aware of our heart health. Signs ranging from shoulder pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and nausea should not be taken lightly, even if you are young and consider yourself healthy.