DHAKA: Individuals, who have had a heart attack, are generally at an increased risk of a second one. But with simple lifestyle changes and following a few precautionary measures, a second attack can be prevented. Here are few simple, yet effective tips to help prevent a second heart attack, reports thehealthsite.com.

Kick the butt: Cigarette smoking damages your heart’s rhythm, arteries and lowers the amount of good cholesterol in your body, thereby increasing your risk of a second heart attack. Consider this, the chances of the recurrence of a heart attack decreases by half if you quit smoking. Also, staying way from exposure to secondhand smoke also goes a long way in preventing its recurrence.

Eat healthily: A healthy and well-balanced diet is the key to a healthy heart. Cut down your intake of saturated fats, as these fats clog the arteries leading to an attack and add foods like those containing omega-3 fatty acids, potassium and magnesium as they help lower your blood cholesterol levels.

Avoid fats People who have had a heart attack should avoid foods rich in trans-fats such as cookies, margarine, fries, donuts, etc. These foods lead to an increase in your cholesterol levels as compared to saturated fats. Substitute them with greens, fruits and whole grains to improve your heart health.

Exercise regularly: Exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes every day, at least five times a week or performing 20 minutes of vigorous exercise three times a week, is an effective way to prevent heart attack. In addition to exercising, activities such as gardening, walking and performing household chores also help. Other activities that give your heart a boost are taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking instead of travelling by car.

Control your cholesterol: It is very important to keep your blood cholesterol levels in control to prevent a second attack. This can be achieved by consuming foods that increase good cholesterol levels in the body, being physically active and staying away from drinking and smoking.

Watch your weight: Obesity is a key risk factor for heart disease and heart attacks. Hence, overweight and obese people are recommended to lose weight and maintain their weight to lower their risk of heart problems.

Manage stress: Stress increases the risk of various heart problems. Hence, it is very important to manage stress. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, socializing, doing things that make you happy, stepping out for some fresh air once in a while, etc. can help you combat stress and prevent the further worsening of your heart condition.

Get regular health check-ups and stick to your medication schedule: Although following the above-stated precautionary measures is effective in the prevention of a second heart attack, taking medicines regularly also plays a vital role.  A regular health check-up is also recommended as it allows your doctor to monitor any irregularities and helps you deal with them, if any.

Try to include these lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy heart and also prevent a second heart attack.

BDST: 1525 HRS, DEC 01, 2014