Certain people face risk factors for heart conditions, such as aging, gender (typically male) and heredity that cannot be avoided or changed. However, there are some major risk factors that can be easily treated or controlled with these ABCs.

Avoid tobacco: If you smoke; quit. If someone in the household smokes, he or she should be encouraged to quit. It’s tough, but it’s tougher to recover from a heart attack or stroke or to live with chronic heart disease.

Be more active: Be physically active every day. Research has shown that getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity on 5 or more days of the week can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and keep weight at a healthy level.

Choose good nutrition: A healthy diet is one of the best weapons to fight cardiovascular disease. The food eaten (and the amount) can affect other controllable risk factors such as cholesterol, diabetes, blood pressure and obesity. Prepare heart-healthy meals that are low in fat and cholesterol and rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber.

The care professionals at Visiting Angels of the San Francisco Bay area are skilled and experienced at helping seniors make smart and healthy heart decisions. For more tips on how to protect your heart or to discuss how Visiting Angels can make home care the best care for you or your loved one, contact us in Alameda County at (510) 284-0000 or in Santa Clara County at (408) 735-0977.