Protect Your Heart: 10 Ways to Prevent a Heart Attack

Black Section Separator

Don't smoke or use tobacco

Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke to protect your heart.

1

Black Section Separator

Choose good nutrition

A heart-healthy diet can control risk factors like high cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes. Choose nutrient-rich foods and limit sweets and red meat. 

2

Black Section Separator

Be physically active.

Get Moving: 150 Minutes of Aerobic Activity a Week for Optimal Health

3

Black Section Separator

Keep your blood pressure under control

High blood pressure is a major risk for heart disease. Get checked regularly and lower it through lifestyle changes, or medication if necessary.

4

Black Section Separator

Maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight, especially around the middle, increases risk of heart disease. BMI of 25+ is overweight, and waist circumference >40" (men) or >35" (women) increases risk.

5

Black Section Separator

Manage diabetes

DM patients >65 have 68% risk of HD and 16% risk of stroke. Other factors like high BP, cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and inactivity increase the risk.

6

Black Section Separator

Take your medicine.

Take prescribed meds for cholesterol, blood sugar & pressure. Don't take aspirin without doctor's advice. Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed after a heart attack or stroke.

7

Black Section Separator

Limit alcohol consumption

Limit alcohol intake to reduce risk of heart disease. Men should have no more than 2 drinks per day and women should have no more than 1.

8

Black Section Separator

Get good quality sleep

Lack of sleep increases health risks. Adults need 7+ hours of sleep each night, with a regular sleep schedule and a dark and quiet bedroom

9

Black Section Separator

Manage stress

Unhealthy stress management can lead to overeating, drinking, or smoking. Physical activity, relaxation, and meditation are healthier alternatives.

10

If You're Diabetic, Avoid These 35 Foods At All Costs

If You're Diabetic, Avoid These 35 Foods At All Costs