Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide—but the encouraging news is that many of the biggest risk factors are strongly influenced by lifestyle and nutrition choices. It is never too late to make adjustments to support a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Understanding the Basics
Cardiovascular health includes a range of conditions that affect how the heart and blood vessels work together to circulate oxygen-rich blood and deliver essential nutrients throughout the body.
These conditions may include:
Coronary artery disease
Peripheral artery disease
Arrhythmias
Heart failure
There are also several health factors that can increase your risk, including:
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
High triglycerides
High Blood Pressure
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure remains consistently elevated. Blood pressure measures how strongly blood pushes against the walls of your blood vessels. Over time, high blood pressure can strain the heart and damage arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Ways to support healthy blood pressure:
Follow a well-balanced diet with more fruits and vegetables and less sodium
Increase physical activity
Limit smoking, vaping, and alcohol
Stay well hydrated
Adjust sodium intake to recommended levels
Talk to your dietitian about your blood pressure readings and personalized recommendations.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance the body uses to build cells, produce hormones, and support digestion. It travels through the bloodstream as LDL and HDL.
LDL (“bad” cholesterol): Can build up in artery walls and form plaque
HDL (“good” cholesterol): Helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream
Ways to support healthy cholesterol levels:
Increase physical activity
Limit saturated fat intake
Increase fiber intake
Include more heart-healthy fats
Bring your most recent lab results to your appointment to review with your dietitian.
High Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood that store energy from excess calories. Elevated levels are often influenced by diet—particularly alcohol and excess carbohydrates.
Ways to support healthy triglyceride levels:
Increase physical activity
Limit alcohol consumption
Reduce refined carbohydrates
Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats
Include omega-3 fatty acids
If you have high triglycerides, your dietitian can help you create a plan tailored to your needs.
