Womens Health Tips - Prevent Heart Disease

TIP #1: Heart disease may lead to heart attack or stroke.

TIP #2: You can die of complications from heart disease, or become permanently disabled.

TIP #3: That's why it is crucial to take action to prevent and control this disease.

To all women ages 40 to 60, it's especially critical that you start right away to lower your risk. That's the time when a woman's risk of heart disease starts to rise. However it is never too late to improve your heart health — even if you have already had a heart attack.

Womens Health Tips... for Heart Health

• Don't smoke, and if you do, quit. Women who smoke are two to six times more likely to suffer a heart attack than non-smoking women. Smoking also increases the risk of stroke and cancer.

• Strive for a healthy weight. It's important for a long, energetic life. Overweight and obesity cause many preventable deaths.

• Keep moving. Commit to be more physically active. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most, if not all, days of the week.

• Eat for heart health. Choose a diet low in saturated fat, Trans fat, and cholesterol, and moderate in total fat. Read product labels.

• Know your numbers. Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol (total, HDL, LDL, triglycerides), and blood sugar. Work in partnership with your doctor to improve any numbers that are not normal.

Questions To Ask Your Health Care Provider About Heart Disease

1. What is my risk for heart disease?

2. What is my blood pressure? What does it mean for me and what must I do about it?

3. What are my cholesterol numbers? What do they mean for me and what do I need to do about them?

4. What is my "body mass index"? Do I need to lose weight?

5. What is my blood sugar level, and am I at risk for diabetes?

6. What other screening tests for heart disease do I need? How often should I return for checkups for my heart health?

7. What can you do to help me quit smoking?

8. How much physical activity do I need to help protect my heart?

9. What is a heart-healthy eating plan for me? Should I see a registered dietitian or qualified nutritionist to learn more about healthy eating?

10.How do I know if I'm having a heart attack?

Please print a copy of this Womens Health Tips article and take it with you for your doctor visit.

Live Long and Prosper :o)

Back to top of Womens Health Tips - Prevent Heart Disease