4 Tips to Prevent Heart Disease E-mail

The Number 1 killer in America is Heart Disease. More than 70 million Americans live with some form of heart disease and most are not taking any steps to prevent it.

1. Eat More Oatmeal! Your health conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol could affect your chance for developing heart disease. Making dietary changes such as eating oatmeal and other high fiber foods could decrease your risk of Heart Disease. Oatmeal contains soluble fiber which reduces your  low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad” cholesterol. Research shows that eating five to 10 grams or more of soluble fiber a day decreases your bad cholesterol. Eating 1 1/2 cups of cooked oatmeal provides 6 grams of fiber, add a little fruit and you can consume over 10 grams of fiber for breakfast.

2. Go for a Walk. Physical activity plays a large role in your heart health. According to American Heart Association, inactivity is a major risk factor for developing coronary artery disease. Physical activities such as walking, can lower blood pressure, decrease the risk of diabetes, and maintain a healthy heart. Consult your doctor to find the right level of physical activity for your heart.

3. Schedule a Massage. Managing stress is crucial to maintain your overall health. Stress affects everyone differently. Understanding how stress affects you could play an important role in heart disease prevention. Take a break from your stress by scheduling a massage.

4. Have a Sense of Humor. Tell a good joke, have a good laugh. Research shows that those who have a ready smile may decrease their chance of heart disease. Laughter increases blood flow and strengthens blood vessels which may help guard against heart attacks. Those who are quick to laugh and have a ready smile may have a lower risk of developing heart disease.  Laughter truly is the best medicine.