A healthy heart helps you feel your best. Many people skip simple steps that can help. Taking your medicine and making smart choices each day can keep your heart strong. Here are four ways to care for your heart.

Medication Adherence

If you have been prescribed medications, be sure to take them. Missing doses can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Studies show that not taking medicine the right way leads to thousands of deaths each year. Sticking to your medicine plan helps prevent heart disease and keeps you healthy. To stay on track:

• Use a pill organizer.
• Set reminders.
• Talk to your doctor if you have side effects.

Regular Routine Checkups

Regular checkups help find problems early and stop them from getting worse. Heart disease can grow without warning. Tests for blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes can spot issues before they become serious.
The American Heart Association® says to check your blood pressure every year and test your cholesterol every few years. This helps your doctor look at your habits and give advice to stop heart disease.

Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Good habits help keep your heart strong. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Walking, swimming and biking are great choices. Eat a healthy diet with:

• Fruits.
• Vegetables.
• Whole grains.
• Lean proteins.

Cut back on salt, sugar and processed foods. Do not smoke. Drink little or no alcohol. It is also important to manage stress and get enough sleep. These habits can:

• Lower your blood pressure.
• Improve your cholesterol.
• Help you stay at a healthy weight.

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease. It is called the “silent killer” because it sometimes shows no symptoms. 
Nearly half of adults have hypertension. This makes regular blood pressure checks important. The goal for most people is below 130/80 mmHg. To lower your blood pressure:

• Reduce sodium intake.
• Exercise.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

If needed, medications can help. Keeping blood pressure under control is one of the best ways to prevent heart disease

The American Heart Association is an independent organization that offers health information you may find helpful.