Even the simplest lifestyle changes can help prevent a heart attack and heart disease. It’s all about making smart choices now that will pay off for the rest of your life.
Eat Healthy
Add plenty of veggies, fruits, grains, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. Cut down on salt, trans fats, sweets, and red meats.
Stay Active
Regular exercise can help prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improve your cholesterol levels. Hit the gym, take a walk or simply go for a swim.
Quit Smoking
It’s great if you don’t smoke. If you do, quit now. Talk to your doctor to find a method to stop smoking immediately. In just 1 year you can reduce your risk of a heart attack.
Control Cholesterol
Blood flowing through the blood vessels can drop traces of fat, cholesterol, and calcium, creating a plaque build up in your arteries. Too much plaque makes a heart attack more likely.
There are two types of cholesterol: One called LDL, which is bad for your heart and the other, HDL, can help protect your heart. Exercise and diet control can lower your bad cholesterol levels. Some people may need to take medications to lower cholesterol.
Be social
Make it a point to stay in touch with friends and family. Research shows that people with more social support are less prone to heart trouble.