Heart disease is the number one killer in America, taking over 650,000 lives a year.
Helping people avoid being part of that statistic is one of the main reasons I became a dietitian.
My grandfather passed away at 50 from heart complications and high cholesterol runs in my family.
Getty Images / Luis Alvarez
Manage Blood Pressure
Having elevated blood pressure increases your risk for heart disease and strokes.
Some things you might do to help: reduce stress, exercise and watch your sodium intake.
(These are thebest and worst foods to eat for your blood pressure.)
Control Cholesterol
Knowing your cholesterol numbers is also important when it comes to a healthy heart.
It’s something most doctors check for at your annual physical.
There’s “good” HDL cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol.
(Here’s a closer look atwhat you should know about cholesterol numbers).
If your numbers are high, eating more good-for-you foods and exercise can help.
Here are10 foods that can help prevent high cholesterol.
Having elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage your heart.
Most of the advice for better blood sugar is just general healthy eating advice.
Here are12 healthy ways to lower your blood sugar.
Get Active
Moving your body is so important.
If you’re not currently exercising, think small.
Start moving a little bit more here and there.
Try these5 Best Exercises for Your Health, According to a Harvard Doctor(every little bit helps).
Eat Better
Changing up what you eat can definitely help your heart.
Try not to stress about any diet changes and just like exercise, start small.
Having a BMI of 30 or more is associated with cardiac complications, according toresearch.
Just a small amount of weight loss can make a big difference for your heart.
Here aresome tips for how to lose weight when you’re not sure where to start.
Stop Smoking
Cigarettes are neither good for your cancer risk, nor your heart.
Smoking is linked to about 33% of all heart disease deaths.
If you currently smoke, have a go at quit.
TheAHA has tips to help you give up tobacco.
