Cardiovascular diseases are getting very common these days, and one of the main reasons behind them is the change of lifestyle which is getting unhealthy and inactive with every passing day. Still, by making some small efforts and changing our lifestyle, this problem can be avoided to a certain extent.

Here are some tips for a healthy heart.

1. Eat more grains, vegetables, greens, fresh fruits, fish, seeds and yogurt. Avoid fast food altogether and try cooking at home.
2. Eat less of milk, cheese and nuts. Keep a strict look at cholesterol level. Monitor it regularly and consult your doctor immediately in case of anything unusual.
3. Add garlic to your recipes. Its benefits are strongest when raw and crushed or finally chopped. It is advised to use it before breakfast with an empty stomach. Have a whole clove or two, put them in your mouth and gulp it down with water just like a pill. Don’t overdo as it may lead to digestive disorder.
4. Use foods like carrots, cabbage, sweet potatoes and dark leafy greens. They contain beta-carotene which is very good for cardiac health.
5. Reduce sodium in your diet. Try to limit your salt (sodium chloride) intake to no more than 1.25 tablespoons per day.
6. Eat regular meals. Try to have small frequent meals. They are easier to digest and provide constant energy to body.
7. Drink at least 8 glasses a day. Water is not only beneficial to your heart but also to your overall health.
8. Switch to tea from coffee.
9. Exercise regularly. Your muscles are fat burning machines. Use this machine efficiently.
10. If possible, take the stairs instead of elevator or escalator.
11. Do the housework yourself. Think of it as an extra chance to exercise.
12. Try to maintain healthy weight. Find out your ideal body weight with respect to your height and make efforts to stay within in the prescribed limits.
13. Quit smoking.
14. Avoid Alcohol.
15. Sleep adequately, at least 6 to 8 hours per day.
16. Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
17. Keep an eye on your cholesterol levels.
18. Regularize your work schedule to avoid overstressing yourself.
19. Practice stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, yoga and meditation.
20. Laughter is a good medicine and does not cost a bit.
21. Get medical check ups done regularly.
22. Sugar level is very critical. Control your diabetes.
23. Find your family history of cardiovascular diseases.
24. Love is a blessing. Try spending time with your loved ones.
25. Take the medications as prescribed by your doctor.