Just walking a few short blocks can make a big difference in heart health for the elderly. A recent study found that light exercise such as walking or dancing can prevent atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart condition where the upper chambers of the heart twitch instead of beating steadily. The condition is most common in people over age 65, though there is an elevated number of cases in younger people who exercise vigorously (e.g. marathon runners).

The researchers studied the lifestyle habits of more than 5,000 people (average age of 73) and found that those who were active had a reduced risk of the heart condition. In fact, those who walked five to 11 blocks a week had 22% less risk of developing the condition.

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If you're a heavy drinker (and I don't mean soft drinks), you may be putting yourself at heavier risk of heart problems, according to new research.

Atrial fibrillation, which can lead to a stroke or heart failure, cold be more prevalent in those that drink more often, say British researchers. The same researchers found that reducing alcohol consumption even a little bit makes a big difference.

If you're a responsible drinker but still engage in drinking too often, the results of this study may be of particular importance to you. What do you think? Is drinking in moderation the solution? From many points of view, it may be. Best advice: don't overindulge in any activity -- drinking included.

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The connection between blood pressure and heart disease has been made before, but a new study has found that pulse pressure, another number associated with blood pressure readings, can be another indicator of future heart health.

Blood pressure is made up of two numbers, the systolic, or top number, and the diastolic, or bottom number. The difference between these two numbers is known as pulse pressure. So a person who has a blood pressure of 120/80 has a pulse pressure of 40. When pulse pressure stays at 40 or below, this study found, the risk of atrial fibrillation showed no change. But once the pulse pressure began to rise, say with a blood pressure reading of 130/80, so did the risk of developing the condition. Atrial fibrillation is associated with stroke and heart disease.

Though experts think this link needs more study, they agree that a person with high pulse pressure may benefit from taking blood pressure medication to bring their numbers more in line. Lifestyle changes can lower blood pressure as well -- limiting sodium, exercising daily, and maintaining a healthy weight.

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