Question

What steps can I take to keep my heart healthy if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer 1

Take these simple steps:

• If heart disease runs in your family, tell your doctor.
• Don't smoke.
• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat protein (like poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds, and low-fat dairy), and whole grains.
• Limit salt and saturated fats.
• Avoid foods made with trans fats. (Check the label for “partially hydrogenated” ingredients.)
• Get plenty of physical activity. Ask your doctor if there are any limits on what you can do.
• Keep up with your checkups and tests for conditions that affect your heart, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
• Stay at a healthy weight.