To help reduce the risk of a recurrence, heart attack survivors need to take charge of their lifestyle. Diet and exercise are key components of a successful recovery, and the following tips will benefit anyone at risk for a second (or for that matter, a first) heart attack.

Be sure to implement the following tips as these are top line treatments as well. Especially if you have a heart attack history, seek the advice of an integrative medicine practitioner to help you weigh what is best for your future protection. And learn the ways of reversing the factors that you do have control over – the ones that are driving the condition.

1. Manage the big risk factors. Quit smoking, and if you have diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor about getting them under control – follow his or her advice about appropriate medications if indicated. While medications may not be anyone’s first choice, once the condition is present, very often the benefits of control outweigh any side effect concerns. If you are on a blood pressure medication, recent studies have shown there is greater protection when taken at night, speak to your prescribing doctor if this is appropriate for you.
2. Eat a heart-healthy diet. Avoid partially hydrogenated and trans-fats and include more vegetables, fruits, whole soy products, legumes, high fiber whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats. See the food choices recommended in my Anti-Inflammatory Diet Food Pyramid.
3. Get active. Moderate physical activity helps keep the heart muscle strong and the arteries flexible, lowers cholesteroland blood pressure, increases overall energy and helps elevate and stabilize mood.
4. Relax. Learn how to implement one or several relaxation strategies into your daily life. Try guided meditation, my 4-7-8 breathing exercise, yoga or any other method that appeals you. Also, consider a deep dive with a spouse, friend or family member to identify your stressors and ways you might reduce them.

3 Min Story That Will Change Your Life: www.bsuccessful.com