Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of premature death in this country. Did you know that more than 15 million people in this country have some form of this disease? This is unfortunate since there are a variety of lifestyle interventions that play a role in coronary artery disease prevention.

Some coronary disease risk factors we have no control over including family history, gender (it's more common in males), and age. On the positive side, there are a variety of lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of coronary artery disease which you can control by making simple changes in your daily habits. What are some of these coronary artery disease prevention strategies?:

Maintain adequate blood pressure control.

Studies have clearly demonstrated that hypertension increases your risk for developing coronary artery disease. Why is this so? When the heart has to pump against increased resistance it can cause changes in the blood vessels that supply the heart, increasing their tendency to form the atherosclerotic plaques seen in coronary artery disease. Getting your blood pressure under control is one of the most important strategies for coronary artery disease prevention.

Prevent or get diabetes under control.

Having diabetes is known to significantly increase your risk for coronary artery disease even when blood sugars are well controlled with diet, medications, or insulin. In fact, coronary artery disease is one of the most common causes of death in a diabetic patient. If you have diabetes, it's important to get your blood sugars under control. If you're fortunate enough not to have diabetes, alter your diet and start a regular exercise plan to help prevent it from developing in the future.

Lower your cholesterol level.

Elevated cholesterol levels have been associated with an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease. Your cholesterol level is checked by a simple blood test which divides your cholesterol into several components including LDL (the "bad cholesterol"), HDL ("the good cholesterol'), and triglycerides. If the LDL or triglyceride level is elevated, your doctor will help you take steps to reduce these levels through diet and lifestyle changes. If these are ineffective, you doctor may recommend certain medications to reduce cholesterol level. This is an important coronary artery disease prevention strategy for both males and females.

Lose the excess weight.

Not only does obesity increase the workload on your heart, it also increases your risk of developing diabetes and hypertension which can contribute to your chances of developing coronary artery disease. If you're overweight, start on a diet and exercise plan to help you achieve your ideal body weight.

Stop smoking.

Smokers have been shown to have a three times increased risk of developing coronary artery disease. If that's not bad enough, secondhand smoke increases the risk of coronary artery disease even in patients who don't smoke. Ask your doctor about getting on a smoking cessation program for coronary artery disease prevention.

Get moving!

Studies have repeatedly shown that fast paced exercise for at least 30 minutes several times a week reduces your risk for coronary artery disease. Not only does it have an independent affect on coronary artery disease prevention, it also reduces the chance of developing diabetes and high blood pressure which are additional risk factors for coronary artery disease.

Eat a healthy diet.

Many studies show an association between diet and the development of coronary artery disease. Diet recommendations for coronary artery disease prevention include a diet low in animal fat and rich in plant matter such as vegetables and fruit. Various other studies have shown a reduced risk of coronary artery disease if you consume moderate quantities of fish which are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. We all have some control over our diets, so this can be an excellent coronary artery disease prevention technique.

Reduce stress levels.

Many studies show an association between stress level and the development of coronary artery disease. If you find stress is a problem in your personal or professional life, it would be helpful to develop techniques for dealing with stressful circumstances such as through meditation or exercise.

Now that you know some coronary artery disease prevention strategies that can keep you healthy and help you to live a longer life, why not put them into practice?

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