Medicine isn’t the only thing that is helpful to your heart. Living in a healthy way is important. Good health habits are a big help in controlling high blood pressure and other symptoms of heart failure. You still need to take the medicines your doctor has prescribed but you will feel better and stay healthier if you also pay close attention to:

  • Your weight
    Lose weight if your doctor has said you need to – you will be healthier and you will feel better. Also, make sure that you check your weight daily to make sure you are not retaining fluids.

  • Eating nutritious food
    It’s helpful to eat lots of fruit and vegetables and to avoid high-fat foods, including dairy products. Eat plenty of fiber, too. Also important is to eat a low sodium diet. Choose fresh, whole foods that aren’t salty.

  • Physical activity
    Following your doctor’s instructions about what’s safe for you to do, choose exercises that you enjoy so you will look forward to being active. Walking, dancing and yoga may be good choices. Try to be active for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

  • Be careful about drinking alcohol
    Alcohol is bad for your blood pressure. If you are male, no more than 2 drinks/day; if you are female, 1 drink/day is your limit.