Preventing Atherosclerosis

There are a number of ways to prevent, as well as reverse, atherosclerosis. They include:

• Eat a healthful diet. It should be low in saturated fat and cholesterol. It should also be rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, lose weight.
• Don't smoke. If you smoke, quit .
• Control diabetes.
• If your doctor recommends it, take medication to reduce your risk factors. This may include medicine for high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Talk to your doctor about screening tests for atherosclerotic disease of the heart (coronary artery disease) if you have risk factors.