If you live with a smoker, encourage him or her to quit. Fat and cholesterol can harden and clog your arteries. A healthy diet is high in fiber and low in fat. In addition, use butter, margarine and cooking oils sparingly. You may also need to avoid foods high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure.
Sodium is found in table salt and some prepared foods, especially canned foods.
Although some research suggests alcohol can help protect against heart disease, moderation is the key. Limit how much you drink. This means no more than one or two drinks a day. Two to four servings of fresh fruit and three to five servings of fresh or frozen vegetables. Two to three servings of lean meat, poultry, fish, dry beans and egg whites.