cardiovascular disease 1 | Page 7

When you have heart disease, there are little things you can do each day to make a big difference to your health.

Food and fitness matter. It's also important to reduce your stress and if you smoke, quit. And of course, take your medicines and keep up with your doctor appointments and cardiac rehab.

staying in touch with your mood is also very important as many people say depression comes along with heart disease.

If you notice that's true for you, talk to your doctor to get treatment.

. There are certain plant foods that may be protective against heart disease, especially foods high in nitrates, antioxidants, fiber and potassium. These include greens such as kale, soy and other beans, nuts (including peanut butter), tea (especially hibiscus and green tea), flax seeds, whole grains, red rice, citrus, Ceylon cinnamon, coffee, cocoa, dark chocolate, dried apples, Indian gooseberries, golden raisins and currants, berries, tomatoes, oatmeal and some spices (such as turmeric).

Certain foods, drugs and lifestyle habits are associated with adverse cardiac consequences including coconut oil and coconut milk, dark fish, Premarin, salt, high fat meals, BPA and smoking. Alcohol may be protective against heart disease but is not recommended because it increases cancer risk.

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