Heart Disease prevention is better than cure

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Remember the information provided here must never be used as an alternative to, or replacement for, advice given by a qualified medical professional.

Summary

    You are at risk of developing heart disease if you are overweight, smoke, have high blood pressure or diabetes.

    The general rule is that prevention is better than cure and taking steps to keep your heart healthy greatly reduces your chances of developing a serious heart condition.

    A nutritionally low diet full of high-fat, sugary and salt-laden foods can contribute to weight gain, raise blood pressure and increase cholesterol levels – all of which are risk factors for heart disease.

    You are on the right path to protecting your heart if you start to:

    • Eat regular meals;
    • Cut down on high-sugar food and drinks;
    • Reduce saturated fat intake;
    • Eat five portions of fruit and veg a day;
    • Reduce salt intake;
    • Keep alcohol intake to moderate levels.

    Keeping active could halve your chances of developing heart disease.

    Exercise not only helps you to maintain a healthy weight, it also reduces cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

    Try to do 30 to 40 minutes of exercise, 3 to 4 times a week. Physical activity also makes you feel great and reduces stress levels. While stress is not a direct risk factor for heart disease, it can be a contributing factor if you turn to destructive coping mechanisms such as over-eating, alcohol or smoking.

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