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Heart disease, also known as cardiac disease, is the number one killer in the United States. Over one quarter of all deaths are from heart disease. Heart disease is also a major cause of disability. There are many different forms of heart disease. The most common cause of heart disease is narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. This is called coronary artery disease and happens slowly over time. It's the major cause of heart attacks.

Steps You Can Take To Ensure A Healthy Heart

Heart disease prevention can be obtained by taking steps to control factors that put you at risk for developing heart disease. Controlling your blood pressure, lowering your cholesterol, exercising, and no smoking are all steps you can take to ensure a healthy heart. Know your blood pressure. Your at risk for heart disease if you have high blood pressure. If you have 140/90, then you have high blood pressure. Ask your doctor for help in lowering it. Eating less salt and sodium can prevent and lower high blood pressure.

Eating low fat, low cholesterol foods can help you reduce your blood cholesterol and your weight, therefore, helping to you prevent heart disease. Knowing healthy cholesterol levels can help you reach them. A total blood cholesterol level of 200 is desireable. A level of 240 is high cholesterol. Even having a level between 200 and 240 can increase your chances of getting heart disease. Check with your doctor to find your cholesterol level.

Just 30 minutes of physical activity a day is all that's required to maintain a healthy heart. Exercise is an important part of heart disease prevention. It can help your heart and lungs function better, lower your blood pressure and blood cholesterol, lower your blood sugar, and help control your weight. Exercise can also help relieve stress, help you sleep better, and help you feel more energetic.

Quitting smoking will lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and lung disease. It will help you breath easier and help you feel less tired. Ask your doctor forways to help you quit smoking. He can inform you on ways to handle stress, stop urges, and get support to help you quit.

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