When you choose healthy behaviors, you can lower your heart disease risk while also preventing other serious chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and some kinds of cancer.
Below are strategies you can take to live a heart-healthy life.
1. Learn Your Health History
Know your risks and talk to your family and doctor about your health history.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Make healthy food choices like more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products. Eat less salt, saturated fat, and added sugar.
3. Move More, Sit Less
Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week, plus muscle-strengthening activities at least 2 days a week.
4. Take Medicines as Directed
If you take medicine to treat high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don’t understand something. Never stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
5. Choose Your Drinks Wisely
Substitute water for sugary drinks to reduce calories. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation by limiting consumption to no more than 1 drink for women and 2 for men on days that alcohol is consumed. If you are pregnant, don’t drink any alcohol.
6. Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home
Self-measured blood pressure monitors are easy and safe to use, and your doctor can show you how to use one if you need help.
Learn more about maintaining a healthy heart.