It’s all the craze these days, so why not join in? Tips and guidelines to a healthy lifestyle are all over your TV, computer and radio. Why is eating healthy, exercising and taking care of yourself so important? Better lifestyle habits reduce your risk for heart disease, diabetes and more. In some cases people need organ transplants due to birth defects, but there are others who need transplants because of heart disease, cirrhosis, type 2 diabetes and other normally preventable diseases. Coronary Artery disease, otherwise known as Heart Disease, is the number one killer in America, affecting more than 13 million Americans. Currently there are about 2,875 people waiting for a life-saving heart transplant in the United States.
Ways to prevent Heart Disease
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products. We know it’s hard but you’ll feel better in the long run and there is plenty of support out there to help you.
- Get Active! No one says you have to go out and run a marathon, but try doing small things like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking an extra 10 minutes when walking the dog.
- Eat a healthy diet – cut some fat out of your diet and add some fruits and vegetables! Did you know that many fruits and vegetables not only help prevent heart disease, but also may help prevent cancer? ALSO, AVOID TRANS FAT AT ALL COSTS.
- Get regular health screenings – Prevention pays! Heart disease if often avoidable. This will help you monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Remember, heart disease kills. Take preventable action before it’s too late.