Preventing Heart Attack: Lifestyle Changes for a Healthier You

Heart attacks are something that most people think about, but believe won't happen to them. Millions of people die from heart disease every year. It is estimated that more than 80 percent of deaths suffered from heart disease are preventable. Make simple changes in your lifestyle to become more healthy and decrease your odds of having a heart attack.

Instructions

• 1

  Eat a diet that is rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Eat plenty of fish while avoiding fatty meats. Keep salt intake at a minimum.

• 2

  Exercise for 30 to 60 minutes daily. Keep your heart rate within it's target zone. Consult with a physician if you're just beginning an exercise regime.

• 3

  Stop all tobacco use. Reduce your risk of heart attack by as much as half after one year being tobacco free. Keep exposure to second hand smoke to a minimum.

• 4

  Keep your blood sugar in check. Check your blood sugar as directed by your physician when you are a diabetic, and take the necessary steps to maintain it at a healthy level.

• 5

  Check your blood pressure regularly and strive to keep it within the healthy range for your age. Consult with your physician to find what blood pressure range is best for you.

• 6

  Control cholesterol through diet, exercise and medication if necessary. Have your cholesterol levels checked at least yearly by your physician. Follow the physician's recommendations to keep your cholesterol at a healthy level.