1. Give up smoking

If you smoke, you are twice as likely to have a heart attack than non-smokers.

2. Maintain optimum cholesterol levels

Heart disease is more likely to affect you if you have:

• Total cholesterol level over 200
• HDL (“good”) cholesterol level under 40
• LDL (“bad”) cholesterol level over 160
• Triglycerides over 150

3. Control high blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects a large percentage of population, making it the most prevalent risk factor for heart disease. Salt reduction, proper food, and exercise are all beneficial. Additionally, some people might need medication to control their blood pressure. Also, if you snore throughout the night or feel very tired, it may be important to get tested for sleep apnea. If you have sleep apnea, treating it can help control high blood pressure.

4. Get active

Those who don’t exercise have a higher risk of developing heart disease and die from it. Consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you aren’t currently active. They can advise you on what exercise you can do.

5. Follow a heart-healthy diet

Consume foods that are low in cholesterol and harmful fat. Everyone should eat more whole grains, beans, nuts, legumes, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other plant-based foods. The fiber foods are good for cholesterol, and you’ll receive vitamins from foods naturally.

6. Get to a healthy weight

Reducing additional weight is good for your heart. It can also help if you reduce high blood pressure and control diabetes.

7. Control diabetes

Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease. Many diabetics are unaware of their condition. Get evaluated and treated.

8. Manage stress and anger

Everyone has stress, therefore sometimes getting angry is common. It’s problematic when stress and anger flare up, especially if it does so frequently. Managing your stress and dealing with your anger in healthy ways puts you back in charge. Mindful meditation or spending few minutes with calmness can help manage stress.