Q: I have several relatives that suffer from heart disease. What's the best thing that I can do for my heart to make sure it stays healthy?
There's no single thing you can do that's most important for maintaining a healthy heart, though practicing an overall heart-healthy lifestyle is always a good approach. This should include a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking (first- or second-hand), and working with your primary physician for guidance and help to optimize your health. Since heart and coronary artery disease can start when we're very young, it's never too early to start eating right and exercising. Help your children develop heart-healthy habits so they too can maintain a healthy heart!