Heart Disease Prevention

Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer and other lung conditions, but it’s also a risk factor for heart and vascular diseases. Research shows that smoking increases your heart rate, can cause irregularities in your heart’s rhythm and hardens your arteries — causing you heart to work harder than usual.

Quitting smoking can reduce your risk of developing heart disease and improve your chances of enjoying a longer, healthier life.

A healthy diet can benefit your heart and help control your cholesterol levels. To improve your heart health, consider eating more of these nutritional foods:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole-grain and high-fiber foods
• Fish and other lean proteins
• Fat-free or low-fat dairy products
  
  

Research shows that 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, five days a week, can lower both your blood pressure and cholesterol — improving your heart health. Preventive cardiology experts can help you understand your current state of health and fitness and whether or not you need to make adjustments in your physical activity routine.

High blood pressure  can weaken your arteries and lead to a number of serious heart problems, including heart attack  and heart failure. Your ideal blood pressure should be 120/80 or lower. To help control your blood pressure, follow these tips:

• Limit your salt intake
• Limit your alcohol consumption
• Check your blood pressure regularly
  
  

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver that can contribute to clogged and hardened arteries, which is also called atherosclerosis. This means it’s important to monitor your cholesterol levels through an annual physical exam and keep your cholesterol at a healthy level.

Cardiovascular disease contributes to more diabetes-related deaths than any other condition. If you have diabetes, you’re four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than a non-diabetic person. This means it’s important to work with your doctor to take steps to manage your diabetes — or prevent it altogether.