High blood pressure and high cholesterol often do not have any symptoms – making a routine check by a health care provider even more important. If high levels are detected, people can improve their blood pressure and cholesterol by eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medicines as recommended. It’s important to work with your primary care provider to develop a plan to maintain healthy levels.

A healthy weight can reduce your risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Read these articles to discover ideas for weight loss and weight management.

According to the Surgeon General, quitting smoking is the single most important step a smoker can take to improve the length and quality of his or her life. As soon as you quit, your body begins to repair the damage caused by smoking.

Stress may seem like something that only affects a person’s mental health. But it can affect your heart as well. Managing your stress levels is an important step in reducing your risk of heart disease. Stress management behaviors and techniques such as meditation, journaling, listening to music, and getting outside are all impactful ways to better your mental and physical wellbeing.

A healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy sources of proteins, along with limiting saturated and trans fat, added sugars, and sodium can reduce your risk of heart disease. Limiting alcohol and sugary drinks also play a role in reducing your risk. It’s recommended that men drink no more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day, while women drink no more than one alcoholic drink per day.

Engaging in as little as 30 minutes of physical activity a day can have wonderful health benefits. Exercise helps to control weight and reduce the risk of health conditions that may put a strain on the heart, such as high blood pressure or obesity. Simple activities like walking the dog, taking the stairs, cleaning the house, or an at-home-yoga video all help to get you moving and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Following a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, getting active, and managing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and stress levels are all lifestyle changes that can help manage your diabetes and reduce your risk of heart disease. Working with a specialist to manage diabetes can further help avoid health complications, allowing you to live a longer and happier life.