Reducing the Risk of Heart and Cardiovascular Disease

Regular physical activity can help you reduce your risk of heart and cardiovascular disease. Being active helps women take off extra pounds, helps to control blood pressure, lessens a diabetic's need for insulin, and boosts the level of "good" cholesterol. Some studies show that being inactive increases the risk of heart attack. Other ways to reduce your risk include:

• Quit smoking - talk with your health care provider if you need help quitting.

• Cut back on foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol.

• Check blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels and keep them under control.

• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most (if not all) days of the week.

• Lose weight if you are overweight and keep at a healthy weight.