Lifestyle and home remedies

Living a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Try these heart-healthy steps:

• Do not smoke or use tobacco. Smoking damages blood vessels. It is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke and can't quit, talk with your healthcare team about programs or treatments that can help.
• Eat a healthy diet. Choose whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, and lean meats. Eat less salt and sugar. Don't eat saturated or trans fats.
• Exercise and keep a healthy weight. If you're overweight, losing even a few pounds can lower your risk of heart disease. Ask your healthcare team what weight is best for you.
• Manage stress. Stress can cause the arteries to get tight. This can increase the risk of heart disease, particularly coronary microvascular disease. Some ways to beat stress are to get more exercise, practice mindfulness and connect with others in support groups.
• Limit alcohol. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.
• Control blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. Make lifestyle changes and take medicines as directed. Get regular health checkups.
• Get good sleep. Poor sleep may increase the risk of heart disease and other health conditions. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.