There are several risk factors for heart disease that you can control. Here are some of the most important ones:
- High blood pressure: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease. You can control your blood pressure by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, reducing your salt intake, and taking medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- High cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. You can control your cholesterol levels by eating a healthy diet that's low in saturated and trans fats, getting regular exercise, and taking medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can increase your risk of heart disease, but you can control your diabetes by monitoring your blood sugar levels, taking medication as prescribed by your doctor, and making healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of heart disease. You can control your weight by eating a healthy diet that's low in calories, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. You can control your risk by quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Physical inactivity: Lack of physical activity is a risk factor for heart disease. You can control this risk factor by getting regular exercise and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine.