Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but many risk factors, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, can be reduced by adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
Here are some habits to prioritize on your journey to better heart health:
- Eat nutritious, balanced meals. A heart-healthy eating plan includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It should also be low in saturated fat, cholesterol, salt and sugar.
- Don’t smoke. The risk for heart disease increases with the number of cigarettes smoked daily. Avoiding smoking sharply lowers your risk, even within the first year.
- Get your steps in. Physical activity is one of the best ways to help prevent or manage heart disease. Regular physical activity can improve cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Health benefits start after losing five percent of your current weight.
- Schedule a biometric screening. Check your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly and keep them under control. High blood pressure and high cholesterol often develop with no symptoms.
Remember: Rome wasn’t built in a day! If you start to feel overwhelmed, focus on making one change at a time. Once you’re ready, move on to the next healthy habit. Any step toward a healthier you is a step in the right direction.
