In the United States, someone dies of heart disease every minute. Both men and women can suffer from heart disease, so it is something everyone should think about. There are many things you can do to help prevent or delay heart disease. Here are a few suggestions that may make a big difference to your health:

• Stop smoking or using other tobacco products. This is the most important thing you can do to help lower your risk for heart disease. Call Dean Health Plan’s Customer Service Department at 800-279-1301 to request helpful tobacco-cessation materials. Also, talk with your doctor about other ways to help you quit.
• Exercise more. Exercise can help you look and feel better. Make it fun by including family or friends. Little changes can help, like parking your car further away from the mall, taking a flight of stairs instead of the elevator or walking instead of watching TV. Walking and other exercise can help you control your weight, reduce your blood pressure and even help lower your cholesterol levels. Talk with your doctor about what exercises may be right for you. Try to do some type of exercise every day.
• Cut down on junk food. We are surrounded by it, but try to make smart choices. Eat a piece of fruit instead of a candy bar. Pick low-calorie foods. Read food labels to help you make better choices. Don’t eat if you aren’t hungry.

By making small changes, you may lower your risk for heart disease and improve your overall health, too. If you would like to know more about heart disease or other health topics, go to our Web site, www.deancare.com, or visit the American Heart Association’s Web site, www.americanheart.org.

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