Medications may be necessary to adequately control your blood pressure. Weight loss, sodium restriction, and increased physical activity may be part of an overall plan for better health. Cigarette smoking doubles your risk of heart attack. It is the biggest risk factor for peripheral vascular disease. Find a program with the help of your physician to stop smoking.
Cholesterol is a substance found in cells, produced by the body and also found in food from animals.
It is essential to forming hormones, cell membranes, and other body functions. Too much cholesterol can cause plaque formation on the lining of blood vessels. Over time, this creates a narrowing that can cause heart attacks or strokes. Excessively high levels may require medications to reduce cholesterol. Other things contributing to lower blood cholesterol levels include physical activity and a low fat, high fiber diet.