Living a healthier lifestyle can help to prevent heart disease. This includes the following:
Eliminating all
tobacco products
You should be aware that all tobacco products are included as risk factors
for chronic illness, not just cigarettes. And, although there may be medical
uses from derivatives of some social drugs, such as alcohol, there is
no therapeutic use for nicotine. As soon as you stop smoking, your body
begins to heal itself from the devastating effects of tobacco.
Adhering to a heart-healthy
diet
One aspect of managing your heart attack risk factors includes eating
a heart-healthy diet that includes appropriate levels of the following:
- Calories
- Cholesterol
- Fat
- Fiber
- Sodium
To try and eliminate any confusion, the federal government has established a food pyramid and food labeling laws. Maintaining a heart-healthy, balanced diet will help to accomplish the following:
- Manage stroke and heart-attack risk factors
- Prevent or manage other chronic diseases
- Assist in losing weight and boosting energy
- Promote overall good health
Following an appropriate
exercise program
One vital step toward reducing your chances of having a heart attack is
making the time to exercise. Today, with our fast-paced society, people
must schedule time to exercise. Choose an activity that you enjoy doing,
and then talk with your physician about an exercise plan that meets your
individual capabilities and needs.
An exercise program will help in the management of almost all stroke and heart attack risk factors.