Live It Out! 5 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease

Someone dies of heart disease in the United States every 40 seconds. Don’t be a statistic! Take action today by making any of these five simple changes.

  1. Stop Smoking

    The most important thing you can do to improve your overall heath and reduce your risk for heart disease is to stop smoking. In fact, you are twice as likely to have a heart attack if you smoke compared to a non-smoker. You’re also much more likely to die if you have a heart attack than a person who doesn’t smoke. Quitting is tough. A good place to start is a smoking cessation class at your local hospital.

  2. Lose Weight

    Between 60 to 70 percent of Americans are either overweight or obese, putting them at higher risk for heart disease.

  3. Get Your Heart Pumping

    Regular physical activity is another key to preventing heart disease. The success of any exercise program starts with consistency and perseverance. You have to stick with the program! Aim for at least half an hour of exercise five times a week.

  4. Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet

    Eat food that is high in fiber but low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Try to limit the amount of salt and sugar you consume. When it comes to meat, keep the portions lean and modest in size.

  5. Check in with a Check-up

    High blood pressure can progress for years without any symptoms and without being detected, causing more and more damage to your heart and arteries. That’s why it’s so important to see your doctor on a regular basis to check your blood pressure as well as your heart rate, cholesterol and risk for diabetes.