Heart Health
Do’s and Don’ts for a Healthy Heart!
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can be a silent, symptomless killer. People can live with hypertension for years and not be aware that it is damaging their organs and blood vessels. That’s why it’s important to check your blood pressure regularly and know your numbers.
When you know your numbers, you can improve them. While there isn’t a cure for hypertension, there are ways to manage it. Just follow the rules for a healthy heart.
| Do: |
Don’t: |
| Maintain a diet that’s rich in high-fiber foods, fruits, vegetables, beans, poultry and fish. |
Eat foods that are high in saturated, trans fats and sodium. Add sugar. |
| Exercise regularly to manage weight and strengthen your heart. Find healthy ways to reward yourself and celebrate successes as you meet your goals. |
Be afraid to try new ways to exercise. Find a physical activity you enjoy and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. |
| Learn to reduce stress by understanding your triggers, setting realistic expectations and taking time to relax. |
Promise too much to others — reduce your stress by learning to say “no.” |
| Take heart medications as your doctor prescribes. If needed, create a routine or system to help you keep track of when you take medications. |
Use tobacco or drink alcoholic beverages in excess. |
If you need help making these lifestyle changes, talk to your health care provider or contact a health coach at 855-838-5897.
Learn about no-cost preventive health screenings that can help identify high blood pressure and other potential heart-related problems.
If you have high blood pressure, heart disease or heart failure, you may qualify for the State Health Plan's No-Pay Copay program. No-Pay Copay provides the generic medications you need to treat your condition, at no cost to you. Learn more about No-Pay Copay.