Lifestyle Choices Do Your Heart Good
Good news for people who worry
about coronary artery disease (CAD):
Research shows that lifestyle choices
can help you live a longer, healthier life.
Prevention is the best cure. Here
are some tips for avoiding CAD:
- If you smoke, quit. Smokers are
2 to 4 times more likely to get CAD.
If you are in Ohio, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
- Eat a healthy, low-fat, low-salt
diet. Choose 1 percent or skim milk.
Eat lots of veggies—without butter or
sauce. Skip frying in favor of baking
or steaming.
- Be active. Brisk walking, bike
riding, dancing, and swimming are
good choices.
- Maintain a healthy weight. By
eating less, choosing nutritious foods,
and getting more exercise you can
lose up to 2 pounds a week.
If you already have CAD, it’s
especially important for your doctor
to keep track of your blood pressure,
cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
You may need medications in addition
to lifestyle changes to help you
manage CAD.
