Health Tips for November 15

Health Tip: Dealing With Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) raises the risk of a stroke or heart attack. But PAD can be managed by making certain lifestyle changes, notably getting enough physical activity. The American Heart Association offers these suggestions: Get regular exercise, at least three times a week. Activities should exercise the legs. Stick to a healthy diet that's low in unhealthy fats and cholesterol. Quit smoking. Take medications prescribed by your doctor. They may include medications to thin the blood, control high blood pressure, and lower "bad" cholesterol. Health Tip: Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, but you can reduce your risk by eating a heart-healthy diet. The National Women's Health Information Center offers these suggestions: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods. Opt for low-fat or no-fat dairy products. Choose lean, healthy proteins, such as chicken or turkey without the skin, fish, nuts and beans. Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, found in many forms of butter, fatty meats, fast food, desserts and creamy condiments such as mayonnaise. Reduce cholesterol in your diet, found in organ meats, pork and sausage, and whole-fat dairy products. Avoid foods that are high in salt (sodium) and sugar.