Add heart-healthy habits to your routine as a starting point for improved health
Diet and exercise are a big part of managing your CV risk. Even simple, heart-healthy changes can make a difference. Choose a few tips below to add to your routine today.
![A clear VASCEPA® (icosapent ethyl) heart](/static/crystalHeart-main-6db964554b87e9bbc4ceddcbb87720b3.png)
![Happy couple cooking a healthy meal together to lower their cardiovascular risk](/static/man-woman-cooking-dbf6a37e929f0c1e51907346a0930c37.png)
![Happy couple cooking a healthy meal together to lower their cardiovascular risk](/static/man-woman-cooking-mobile-4d5fd8731232f99335a02fb9f9379865.png)
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Eat healthy.
As with most things in life, eating healthy comes down to preparation. Here are some useful tips whether you're home or on the go.
At home
- Double the batch of a heart-healthy recipe and freeze additional servings for future meals
- Combine leftovers—remember to keep tabs on portion sizes—to create new meals
- Chop vegetables and prepare fruit to make convenient snack packs
At work
- Eat lunch away from your desk to avoid “mindless eating”
- Bring snacks with fiber and protein so you feel full longer, like unsalted nuts, Greek yogurt, or whole-grain crackers
- Replace cream with milk or plant-based milk in your coffee. Also try lowering your sugar intake
![Plate icon](/static/block-column-image-three-f8cac7242fbf5960577ea4239883c5df.png)
At restaurants
- Read the menu ahead of time. If you choose a less healthy option, plan to make healthier choices for the rest of the day
- Ask for healthy substitutions or for items (like sauces) on the side
- For big portions, request a to-go container and save half for tomorrow’s dinner
![Man playing basketball to help improve his heart health](/static/stayActive-5ef789c7aa4c1f4e18baace06bb2b88a.png)
![Man playing basketball to help improve his heart health](/static/stayActiveMobile-7c23aedabb8b04fbc804ec43b936d78b.png)
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Stay active.
Here are some tips to set some goals and get up and go. Remember, always talk to your doctor first before starting a new exercise routine.
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Set yourself up for success
- Make clear goals by planning “what,” “when,” “where,” and “how long” for each activity
- Set your phone to buzz when you’ve reached your target steps for the day
- Remember: set reasonable expectations! Even a little more movement each day adds up
Switch up your routine
- Try a group exercise class or an online workout
- Add more movement to an everyday routine, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator
- Join an organization or charity that hosts active events like walks or runs
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Find more time
- Work with your doctor to determine how many minutes of activity to aim for per week, and break that into manageable time periods (even if it’s only 10 minutes)
- Make TV time active! Walk in place, do yoga, or lift weights while you watch
- Exercise during the time of day when you have the most energy
Taking prescribed medications
- Schedule when you’ll take each of your medications, so you have a plan in place
- Work taking your medications into an established routine. For example, take them every morning after you brush your teeth
- Set reminders like a phone alert or fridge sticky note
![Vascepa capsule](/static/capsule-283d8c353832a175b7f95fb910b11f17.png)
Now, find out how VASCEPA reduces your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Capsule is not actual size.