What Dr. Oz Thinks About Preventing Heart Attacks

Dr. Mehmet Oz has hopeful advice when it comes to preventing heart attacks with lifestyle changes ranging from diet and exercise to stress relief.

"You absolutely can reverse and virtually eliminate heart disease by making sensible lifestyle changes," he said, according to Better Homes & Gardens.

Heart attacks are three times more likely to occur in the morning, Dr. Oz said on his website. To lessen the risk, he recommends taking most medicines at night, including those for blood pressure and cholesterol, baby aspirin and magnesium. A good night's sleep also can benefit the heart, and getting at least 20 minutes of sun can support a restful night.

Diet — Trim belly fat to reduce heart disease.

"Belly fat squeezes the kidneys, poisons the liver, raises blood pressure, increases inflammation, and blocks the ability of insulin to work," Dr. Oz said, according to Better Homes & Gardens.

He recommends avoiding sugary beverages and trans fats. Instead, reach for foods that support heart health, such as kidney beans, sweet potatoes, garlic, blackcurrant juice and beet juice, Dr. Oz said on his website.

Omega-3 fatty acids and Coenzyme Q10 also can boost heart health.

Exercise — Get at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise twice a week to keep you heart strong and healthy, Dr. Oz recommends.

Stress relief — Some tips Dr. Oz offers for reducing stress include daily meditation, deep breathing, guided imagery, aromatherapy, music therapy.

This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.

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