Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heart disease includes a variety of heart conditions, infections and blood vessel problems that can be prevented or lessened with good care. If you have heart disease, you can manage your condition with healthy lifestyle choices. Knowing what to eat, how to exercise and when to see your doctor can help you manage your disease, prevent complications and enjoy a happy, healthier life.
Step 1
See your doctor regularly to check for any changes in your condition. Follow your doctor's orders and take any prescribed medications as directed. Work with your doctor by monitoring your symptoms and recording your blood pressure, weight and any other recommended health indicators regularly. Consult your doctor if you experience any new symptoms or negative changes in your existing condition.
Step 2
Eat a nutritious diet that is low in fat, especially "bad" fats -- saturated and trans fats. Trans fats occur in many fried fast foods and some prepackaged desserts and snack foods. Cut all trans fats from your diet, as they can clog your arteries and contribute to heart complications and even failure. Saturated fats occur in red meats, full-fat dairy products and many desserts. Limit your saturated fat intake to less than 7 percent of your daily caloric intake, advises the American Heart Association.
Step 3
Don't smoke. If you are a smoker, work on quitting. See your doctor for treatment options if you need help. Smoking causes atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty substances in the arteries that can hinder blood flow and strain the heart.
Step 4
Do light to moderately intense aerobic exercise regularly. The American Heart Association advises doing at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week. Choose from a variety of activities, including walking, hiking, cycling, jogging, swimming, tennis, climbing stairs or dance. Check with your doctor for clearance before beginning an exercise program.
Step 5
Maintain a healthy weight for your age, sex and height. Obesity can further complicate your heart disease and increase your chances of having a heart attack. Work with your doctor to develop a diet and exercise program that can help you lose weight and keep it off. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Guide Pyramid Planner (see Resources) can offer suggestions on how much and what types of food to eat to meet your weight loss goals.
Things You'll Need
- Comfortable exercise clothes
