There are some factors that increase your risk for heart disease
over which you have no control. Being male, a woman after
menopause, an African-American, getting older, or having a
family history of heart disease are risk factors you cannot
change. However, you do have control over the most common
factors that increase your risk for heart disease - obesity,
high blood fats, high blood pressure, smoking and physical
inactivity. Being obese or overweight makes your heart work
harder and makes you more likely to have high blood pressure,
diabetes and high blood fats. Avoid weight gain, especially as
you get older. If you are more that 20 percent heavier than your
desirable weight, or are a woman with a waist size greater that
35 in., or man with a waist size greater than 40 in., make some
lifestyle changes to improve your weight. Increase your
activity. Spend less time sitting or watching television.
Consume fewer calories. Focus more on grains, vegetables,
fruits, low-fat dairy, lean meat or protein and fewer