Try to include lean meat, fish and poultry, along with low or reduced fat dairy products, and moderate amounts of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated margarine spreads and oils in your diet.

5. Salt

If you have high blood pressure, it is very wise to reduce your salt intake. Recommendations suggest aiming for a salt intake of no more than 6g per day, (2400 mg). This is about one level teaspoon of salt and includes both the salt we add in cooking and at the table, and the also sodium already present in the foods we eat.

6. Exercise 

Exercise is very important for a healthy heart. However, if you've been inactive for some time it is important to start slowly, building up your strength gradually. You may want to start with five minutes of activity four times each week, gradually building this up to a level which you can tolerate.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderately intense activity five of more days each week. Remember that any increase in your current activity levels will be beneficial for your health in the long-term.

Related:
 

Vitamin D: Explosive New Player in Heart Health

Heart Diet Study: Do Not Swallow Whole

Knowing Your Heart Disease Risk: Where Does Cholesterol Fit In?

Salt and High Blood Pressure -- What's Better: Sodium or Potassium?