Heart Healthy Lifestyle Changes

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
• Choose to move. Invest in 30 minutes of a physical activity like brisk walking at least 5 days per week. Physical activity or movement lowers blood cholesterol, plus helps to regulate your blood sugar and blood pressure. Exercise also helps you lose weight when combined with a few dietary changes
• Follow a healthy diet for weight reduction or weight maintenance, including fruits, vegetables, fiber, whole grains, proteins such as salmon or other cold water fish, and heart healthy fats like olive oil
• Monitor your weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, or diabetes. A decrease of 5 to 10% of your body weight can be effective in lowering blood pressure and blood glucose. Losing 1 to 2 pounds per week is achievable with a few dietary changes and gentle exercise.
• Seek evaluation or treatment for stress or depression
• Avoid alcohol entirely or limit intake to no more than 4 oz. daily
• Monitor your blood pressure and blood cholesterol level to maintain normal levels
• Maintain regular check-ups with your physician and dentist