Learn to eat right. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the workload of the heart and increases the risk of stroke and heart atttacks. A blood pressure test is simple and inexpensive to perform and should be measured regularly. There are many new medications on the market that can help keep the blood pressure under control. Lack of physical activity is a major risk for heart disease.
Daily exercise can help control blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes.
Start out by walking daily for 30 minutes. Walk at a pace that will bring a sweat but ask your physician first before starting rigorous exercise. Losing as little at 10 pounds can make a big difference in lowering the risk of heart disease. Learn the warning signs for a heart attack. Many diabetics do not feel chest pain during a heart attack.