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.
Useful links
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- British Heart Foundation
- The British Heart Foundation plays a leading role in the fight against disease of the heart and circulation. A comprehensive website on all matters of the heart, including local services. Visit British Heart Foundation »
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- Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke
- NICHS run a number of services across Northern Ireland to help people and their families to meet the challenges of living with chest, heart or stroke conditions. Visit Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke »
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- Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland
- Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland improves the quality of life for people in Scotland affected by chest, heart and stroke illness. Visit Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland »