Specialist Dietitian Outlines Why Heart Health Matters at Every Age

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of South Africa’s leading health concerns, accounting for nearly one in three deaths nationally, with many cases linked to preventable lifestyle factors.

Alarmingly, around 80% of cardiovascular-related deaths occur in people younger than 65, highlighting the growing need for South Africans to prioritise heart health far earlier in life.

As conversations around preventative wellness gain momentum, Specialist Dietitian and Laager Rooibos Partner, Mbali Mapholi, is encouraging families to view heart health as a lifelong journey shaped by small, everyday choices.

“Too often, heart health is only taken seriously later in life, but prevention starts much earlier with habits we develop from childhood,” explains Mbali.

“As a dietitian, I’ve seen how simple daily habits like balanced nutrition, movement, and mindful hydration can significantly support heart health over time. It’s these small, repeated actions – such as enjoying a daily cup of Laager Rooibos Tea - that reduce risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol across all stages of life.”

Building Heart Health From The Start

Childhood And Teenage Years

The foundations for a healthy heart are established early.

Mbali says:

“Healthy habits developed during childhood can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life, before it even begins. Encouraging balanced meals, regular activity, and healthier drink choices early on sets the tone for lifelong wellbeing.”

At this stage, daily routines influence:

Long-term blood pressure patterns

Weight regulation

Taste preferences (i.e. a diet high in sugary foods and drinks can build a long term preference for these tastes)

Adulthood

In adulthood, heart disease risk develops gradually, often driven by everyday habits.

“Over time, negative patterns can contribute to conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and type 2 diabetes,” warns Mbali.

“Many people don’t realise that it’s not one single event that impacts heart health, but rather the cumulative effect of daily choices.”

Common contributing factors include:

High stress levels

Sedentary lifestyles

Diets high in processed foods and sugary beverages

Older Age

While ageing naturally places more strain on the heart, it’s never too late to make positive changes.

“Even small adjustments - such as improving diet, drinking a daily cup of Laager Rooibos Tea, or increasing physical activity - can still make a meaningful difference,” advises Mbali.

As we grow older:

Blood vessels become less flexible

Recovery slows

Risk factors become more pronounced

Simple Daily Habits That Support Heart Health

Mbali emphasises that heart health does not need to be complicated.

Instead, she encourages practical, achievable ‘daily wins’, such as:

Move daily: Even a 20-minute walk can have long-term benefits.

Eat more plants: Aim for vegetables to make up half your plate.

Manage stress: Incorporate moments of calm, such as journaling or meditation.

Prioritise sleep: Maintain consistent sleep routines.

Balance red meat intake: Opt for more plant-based meals where possible.

Rethink your drink: Choose beverages lower in sugar and caffeine-free, such as Laager Rooibos.

“Hydration is often overlooked, but it plays a key role in overall health,” she adds.

“Choosing options like Laager Rooibos Tea, either as a warm beverage or iced tea, can support hydration while providing added benefits.”

The Role Of Laager Rooibos In Heart Health

Rooibos tea, such as Laager Rooibos, offers a naturally caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich option that fits seamlessly into a heart-conscious lifestyle.

Importantly, Laager Rooibos carries the Heart Mark from the Heart & Stroke Foundation South Africa, reinforcing its position as a heart-smart choice for the whole family.

“Laager Rooibos is a simple, accessible, and cost-friendly choice that I often recommend,” says Mbali.

“It’s packed with antioxidants, supports hydration, and can be enjoyed throughout the day without the added sugars found in many beverages. As someone who works with the brand, I always aim to be transparent, and it’s also a product I genuinely value for its practicality and health benefits in everyday life.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is heart health important at every age?

Heart health is important at every age because cardiovascular disease develops over time, often starting with habits formed in childhood and continuing into adulthood.

Maintaining healthy routines early - such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise and healthy drink choices like Laager Rooibos Tea - can help prevent high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease later in life.

What are the best daily habits to improve heart health naturally?

The best daily habits to improve heart health naturally include regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole foods, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and choosing low-sugar, heart-friendly drinks like Laager Rooibos Tea.

These simple lifestyle changes can support long-term cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic disease.

What brands are part of the Joekels tea range in South Africa?

Joekels produces and distributes several well-known beverage brands in South Africa, including Laager Rooibos, Tetley, Tea4Kidz, Tea Time and Society Coffee.

These brands offer a wide range of options - from everyday blends to functional and family-friendly choices - designed to support different tastes, lifestyles and health needs.

Keep Updated

Find out more about Laager Rooibos, including health tips and fantastic Rooibos-infused recipes, by visiting https://www.joekels.co.za or following https://www.facebook.com/LaagerRooibosTea and https://www.instagram.com/LaagerRooibosTea.

Laager Rooibos can be purchased from all major supermarkets, as well as online at https://www.joekels.co.za.