Atherosclerosis - Prevention

The key to reducing the risk for atherosclerosis is to reduce the risk factors an individual has control over, which includes:

• Eating a healthy diet low in cholesterol and triglycerides. The diet should be high in fruits and vegetables.
• Exercising regularly. Physical activity can lower blood pressure and help control weight.
• Maintaining a desirable body weight.
• Stopping—or never starting—to use tobacco. Even people who smoke can reduce their risk of atherosclerosis by giving up the habit.
• Seeking treatment for hypertension. Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. High blood pressure is probably a hereditary condition, but it can be brought under control by certain changes in lifestyle. These changes include reducing the amount of sodium and fat in the diet, exercising, learning how to manage stress, giving up smoking, and drinking alcohol in moderation.