If you have diabetes, and your premeal blood sugars are not under good control, you should contact your physician. Estrogen has favorable effects on the heart and improves many cardiovascular risk factors. Risks and side effects exist, so hormone replacement therapy is not for everyone. However, every woman should have a discussion about the potential risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy to determine what is best for her. At the Women's Heart Clinic, we have a detailed risk assessment to help determine if you should consider taking hormone replacement therapy.
Obesity is linked with all forms of cardiovascular disease and increases the risk of dying early.
From a heart standpoint, the leaner the better. The suggestions on nutrition and exercise will help you to maintain you ideal body weight. The Mayo Clinic has an Obesity Clinic to help you achieve your weight loss. You should be taking an aspirin each day unless you and your physician have discussed why you cannot take aspirin therapy. Aspirin helps thin the blood and prevents clot formation in the arteries of your heart.