The BEAT code
Do more to beat heart disease by following
the simple BEAT code.
Be active
Regular physical activity can help
keep your heart healthy. Aim to do at least 30 minutes of moderate
intensity activity a day, on at least five days a week. You
don't have to don lycra or run a marathon - walking, swimming and
taking the stairs all count.
Eat healthily
Healthy eating can
help reduce your risk of heart disease. We're all allowed a
little of what we fancy, but try to cut down on saturated fats,
salt and alcohol. For top marks, eat at least five portions of
fruit and veg a day, oily fish once a week and go for the
wholegrain options.
Avoid smoking
Smoking can damage the heart and
smokers are almost twice as likely to have a heart attack compared
with people who have never smoked. If you want to live a longer and
healthier life, stopping smoking is the single most important thing
you can do.
Take the lifestyle check
There are other factors that affect your heart health, like
weight and body shape. Find out how you measure up and what steps
you can take to look after your heart. Check out your habits
and get a personalised report with tips and support to improve your
lifestyle.
Launch the lifestyle check
If you would like to speak to someone
about your report, you can phone our Heart
Matters Helpline on 0300 330 3300.
You can also read Heart Matters
magazine for great tips on how to keep your heart healthy,
exercise ideas and delicious recipes.