7 Strategies to Live a
Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
When you choose healthy behaviors, you can lower your heart disease risk while also preventing other serious chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and some kinds of cancer.
1
Learn Your Health History
Know your risks and talk
to your family and doctor
about your health history.
2
Eat a Healthy Diet
Make healthy food choices like
more fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, lean meats, and low-fat
dairy products. Eat less salt,
saturated fat, and added sugar.
3
Move More, Sit Less
Get at least 150 minutes of
moderate-intensity aerobic
activity every week, plus
muscle-strengthening activities
at least 2 days a week.
4
Quit Smoking
Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for
free help and take the first
step on your journey to quit.
5
Take Medicines as Directed
If you take medicine to treat high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don’t understand something. Never stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
6
Choose Your Drinks Wisely
Substitute water for sugary drinks to
reduce calories. If you drink alcohol,
do so in moderation by limiting
consumption to no more than
1 drink a day for women (2 for men)
on days that alcohol is consumed.
7
Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home
Self-measured blood pressure monitors are easy and safe to use, and your doctor can show you how to use one if you need help.
Learn more about keeping your heart healthy by visiting
www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/prevention.htm.