How To Get A Healthy Heart

Feeling the Pressure?

Hypertension (or High Blood Pressure) Control Is Possible

two people

Nearly 1 in 2 adults has high blood pressure

Yet only about
1 in 4
has it under control
to <130/80 mm Hg

four people

If left uncontrolled, high blood pressure can increase a person's risk for heart disease, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, pregnancy complications, and cognitive decline later in life.

7 Strategies to Live a
Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

When you choose healthy behaviors, you can lower your heart disease risk while also preventing other serious chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and some kinds of cancer.

patient and doctor

1

Learn Your Health History

Know your risks and talk
to your family and doctor
about your health history.

healthy foods including grains, fruits and vegetables

2

Eat a Healthy Diet

Make healthy food choices like
more fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, lean meats, and low-fat
dairy products. Eat less salt,
saturated fat, and added sugar.

2

Eat a Healthy Diet

Make healthy food
choices like more fruits,
vegetables, whole grains,
lean meats, and low-fat
dairy products. Eat less
salt, saturated fat,
and added sugar.

family doing sit ups

3

Move More, Sit Less

Get at least 150 minutes of
moderate-intensity aerobic
activity every week, plus
muscle-strengthening activities
at least 2 days a week.

3

Move More, Sit Less

Get at least 150 minutes
of moderate-intensity
aerobic activity every
week, plus muscle-
strengthening activities
at least 2 days a week.

Quit smoking for the people you love.

4

Quit Smoking

Start your quit plan today!
Take the first step and call
1-800-QUIT-NOW for FREE support.

4

Quit Smoking

Start your quit
plan today!
Take the first step and
call 1-800-QUIT-NOW
for FREE support.

pharmacist and customer

5

Take Medicines as Directed

If you take medicine to treat high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don't understand something. Never stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

glass of water

6

Rethink Your Drink

Substitute water for sugary drinks to reduce calories. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

man monitoring blood pressure

7

Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home

Self-measured blood pressure monitors (SMBPs) are easy and safe to use and your doctor can show you how to use one if you need help.