six ways you can control heart disease

Here are six ways you can control and help prevent many of the risk factors for heart-related illnesses:

1. Exercise regularly. Biking, swimming and other types of aerobic exercise are great for your heart. Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

2. Balance your diet. Make smart food choices, such as eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Avoid items high in calories, sodium, and saturated and trans fats.

3.Stay at a healthy weight. A quick body mass index (BMI) assessment can tell most people if they are at a healthy weight. It's important to discuss your weight and BMI with your doctor. For many, losing just 10 percent of body weight can significantly reduce heart-disease risk.

4. If you smoke, get help to quit. We want to help you live a tobacco-free life. For support, call the American Cancer Society at 1-866-611-QUIT (1-866-611-7848). TDD users can call 1-866-228-4327. If you are a Medicaid or Family Health Plus plan member, call the New York State Smokers' Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487). TTY users can call 711.

5. Know your blood pressure. Speak with your doctor about ways to lower high blood pressure, such as reducing salt in your diet.

6. Control high cholesterol. Have your cholesterol levels checked regularly. If you have high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about ways to lower it, such as getting more exercise and working more nutrients into your diet.