help prevent heart attacks

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the American Heart Association. The thought of a heart attack can be scary. The good news is the risk of a heart attack can be helped with lifestyle changes and following the advice of medical professionals. Follow these steps to help prevent heart attacks. Note: You should always consult a doctor prior to making any lifestyle changes.

Eat A Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is one of the most important ways to prevent heart attacks. A healthy diet can include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid saturated fat and added sugars.

It is ideal for all of us to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day and limit how the amount we eat of red meat and processed foods.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is an important way to prevent heart attacks. Get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, the American Heart Association said. Add moderate- to highintensity muscle-strengthening activity (such as resistance or weights) at least two days per week. Exercise can also help lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.

Maintain A Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of heart disease. There is no “magic formula” for everyone, but be aware of food choices and stay active.

DON’T SMOKE

Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. More than 480,000 U.S. adults die from smoking-related cardiovascular disease each year, according to AHA statistics. Quitting smoking can improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Reduce Stress

Stress can contribute to the risk of heart attacks. Manage stress by exercising, yoga, meditation, or spending time with friends and family.

Manage Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, can increase the risk of heart attacks. Manage those conditions through a healthy diet, exercise, and medication as prescribed by a doctor.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is a key for heart health. Try to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. The AHA recently added sleep to Life’s Essential 8, its list of recommended behaviors and factors for optimizing heart and brain health.

Know The Signs

Knowing the signs of a heart attack is critical.

The signs can include chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, and pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw, or back. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention.

GET REGULAR CHECK-UPS

Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your heart health and detect any risk factors or early signs of heart disease. One of the best ways to monitor your health is to regularly see your healthcare provider.

Take Medications As Prescribed

If your healthcare provider prescribes medications, it’s important to take them as prescribed. Your health care professional can provide you with tips on how to manage your medications, including what to do if you miss a dose, and if you can take them with other medications.