Tips and Resources

Eat healthy

That means eating mostly vegetables, fruit, beans, nuts and whole grains. Limit red meat to a few times each month. Limit saturated fat, trans fats, sodium and sugar.

If you would like to learn more about healthy eating, visit Parkview Center for Healthy Living to view current classes. Dietetic consults are also available through Parkview Physicians Group – Cardiology call 260-266-5731 for an appointment.

Exercise your heart

Just 30 minutes of regular activity every day is all it takes to make a real difference.

Stop smoking

You will cut your risk of a heart attack by fifty percent after one year as a non-smoker.

Call the Parkview Center for Healthy Living at 260-266-6500 to learn more about the many times and locations where Freedom from Smoking classes are offered.

Get treatment for sleep apnea

Untreated sleep apnea can increase your risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, and even a heart attack or stroke.

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have a sleep disorder, call Parkview Physicians Group – Sleep Medicine at 260-266-5260.

Practice stress management

Stress can cause your arteries to narrow. Narrow arteries lead to higher blood pressure and increased risk for a heart attack. Research shows that the most commonly reported “trigger” for a heart attack is an emotionally upsetting event, especially one involving anger.

The Parkview Center for Healthy Living offers stress management classes. Visit Parkview Center for Healthy Living to view current class schedules.

Limit alcohol intake

Heavy drinking can damage the heart muscle and worsen other risk factors for those with congenital heart defects.

Getting help from Parkview Behavioral Health is easy. For a free initial screening, call the HelpLine at 260- 373-7500 or 800-282-8439 anytime. Someone is available 24 hours a day.

Know your numbers and family history

Know your cholesterol, blood sugar levels, blood pressure readings, as well as your family history of cardiovascular disease. Being aware of these key numbers and facts will assist you and your physician in tailoring a personal plan of prevention.

Check Up Days at the Center for Healthy Living are an excellent way to know your numbers. Visit Parkview Center for Healthy Living to view scheduled dates.