Make Doctor Visits More Productive

You should make regular appointments with your doctor, even if you feel well and have few risk factors. Attacking or preventing a problem before it ever arises is the key to good health. Take charge of your heart health -- read on to learn what lifestyle choices can lead you down the road to success.

If You Smoke...

Quit! Talk to your doctor about ways to kick the habit once and for all.

Eat Smart

Following a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol can reduce your risk for heart disease. Eat fish, poultry, lean meats, low-fat or non-fat dairy products and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Folic acid and vitamins C and E may be associated with a decreased risk of heart disease. Also, drinking orange juice, which is the number one source of folate, may help your heart.

Get Moving!

Get out your bike or lace up those walking shoes. Studies show that physically active women have a substantially lower risk of cardiovascular disease than sedentary women. Start off slowly and gradually build up to a routine, aiming for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three to four times a week. Consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Watch Your Alcohol Intake

Drinking one or two alcoholic beverages a day may actually cut your risk of heart disease. But, alcohol intake has some well-known health risks. If you don't drink now, don't start just to protect your heart. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you.

Ask Your Doctor About whether a Low-Dose Aspirin Regimen is Right for You

Aspirin is effective for preventing certain cardiovascular events in appropriate patients.

Try to Remember...

Be clear and realistic about your goals - Make your goals achievable ones that can become part of your life and routine (e.g., a reasonable exercise schedule, a reasonable amount of weight loss).

• Make it a priority to care for yourself - By maintaining your health, you will be better prepared to be at your best at work, at home or anywhere else.
• Tackle your health as a team - Open communication and regular dialogue with your physician is essential in identifying the best medical and lifestyle interventions to secure your heart health.
• Seek support along the way - Buddy up with friends or family to accomplish your goals. Join support groups, or seek the help of a qualified therapist or counselor if needed.
• Celebrate your success - It's important to feel good about yourself and reinforce the positive steps you're taking.