1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
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Include: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish, chicken, and legumes), healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, seeds).
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Avoid: Fried foods, red/processed meat, sugary drinks, high-salt and high-fat processed foods.
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Limit: Added sugar and salt.
Tip: Use the Mediterranean diet as a guide—it's great for heart health.
2. Exercise Regularly
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Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 5 days a week.
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Walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga are all good options.
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Physical activity strengthens your heart and improves blood circulation.
3. Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
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High blood pressure and high LDL (bad cholesterol) are major risk factors.
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Reduce salt intake, avoid alcohol, exercise, and take medications if prescribed.
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Get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly.
4. Manage Diabetes Properly
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Keep blood sugar levels within your target range.
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Follow your diabetes meal plan, take medications, and check your blood glucose regularly.
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High blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
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Being overweight increases the risk of heart disease.
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Even losing 5–10% of your body weight can improve heart health.
6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
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Quit smoking – it's one of the worst habits for your heart.
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Limit alcohol – excessive drinking increases blood pressure and weight.
7. Manage Stress
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Chronic stress contributes to high blood pressure and poor heart health.
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Try deep breathing, meditation, journaling, or hobbies.
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Don’t hesitate to seek support or therapy if needed.
8. Get Enough Sleep
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Poor sleep increases heart disease risk.
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Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
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Avoid screens and heavy meals before bedtime.
9. Know the Warning Signs
Be alert to symptoms like:
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Chest pain or pressure
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Shortness of breath
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Pain in arms, neck, jaw, or back
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Lightheadedness or cold sweat
Tip: If these occur, seek medical help immediately. Time is critical.
10. Routine Health Checkups
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Get regular checkups for:
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Blood pressure
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Cholesterol
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Blood sugar
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Weight/BMI
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Discuss any family history or symptoms with your doctor.
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