You can reduce your risk of developing heart disease by making the following changes:
- You can reduce the chances of developing heart disease by controlling blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol. Please make sure you get advice and support from your doctor to keep them within your target range. Monitor your blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure and blood cholesterol as advised by your doctor. Scientific studies have shown that normalising blood glucose, controlling hypertension to target with blood pressure lowering medicines, and using statins to keep LDL cholesterol levels on target helps reduce the risks of heart disease.
- Quit Smoking. Smoking makes it harder for blood to flow around your body, especially to your heart.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet to protect your heart, significantly reducing saturated fat in your diet.
- Be physically active and do regular exercise. Avoid sitting for long periods.
- If you are obese or overweight, discuss with your doctor methods to help you lose some weight. Even losing a small amount can make a real difference.
- Take your medication as prescribed. Adherence to drugs controlling diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol will help in reducing your risk of developing a heart attack.
Author
Dr. Tittu Oommen