Adults should, as far as possible, take steps to control the risk factors for heart disease.
If you smoke, quit, as smoking increases more than twice the chance of having heart disease.
Maintain good control of blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes, and follow the doctor's orders.
Lose weight if you are obese or overweight.
Exercise regularly to improve your health. (Talk to your doctor first before starting any new fitness program.)
Eat a heart healthy diet. Limit saturated fats, red meat and sugars. Increase intake of chicken, fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. Your doctor can help you adapt a specific diet for your needs.
Limit the amount of alcohol you consume. One drink per day is associated with reducing the rate of heart attacks, but taking two or more drinks a day can cause heart damage and lead to other health problems.