Is Diet And Exercise Enough? Is There Anything Else I Can Do?

— -- Question: I am 35 years old, watch my diet, and work out every day; is that enough to lower my risk of developing heart disease, or is there anything else I can do?

Answer: Well at the age of 35, exercise and eating a low-fat diet is a great start, but unfortunately it's not enough to guarantee health. We need also to follow up regularly with our medical provider at least once a year so that you know and keep an eye on your blood pressure. Because even exercise at a young age, even watching one's weight -- high blood pressure can sneak up on us, and it's becoming very common.

As well, it's important to know your cholesterol even at a younger age, in your twenties, knowing if your cholesterol is high and modifying your diet accordingly, or being on medicines, are important steps that you also have to take in order to prevent coronary artery disease.

One other thing, even though exercise is important, you have to make sure that you get enough aerobic exercise. Just, for instance, say, weight lifting and building muscle mass, may not be enough to protect you long term.

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