Smoking.
One of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of heart disease is to stop smoking. Smokers younger than 50 are five times more likely than non-smokers to die of coronary heart disease .
By stopping, you not only lower your risk of heart disease but also help reduce your risk of lung diseases such as cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The key to successful quitting is to pick a method that's right for you. For example, if you're motivated by other people and enjoy their company, you may find encouragement and support by joining a group.
If you prefer to go it alone, you may find it helpful to buy a book or tape. Your GP can prescribe aids such as nicotine replacement therapy or, alternatively, you may benefit from a complementary therapy such as acupuncture.
Drinking.
First the good news: a moderate amount of alcohol can help protect against coronary heart disease.
And the bad? Regular heavy drinking (more than the number of recommended units), or binge drinking, can increase your risk of drink-related heart problems. There's no need to give up alcohol altogether but it's important to drink sensibly.
Always eat when you drink: take a tip from the Mediterranean countries and always have a meal or snack when you drink alcohol.
Know your limits: To reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, don't exceed 1-2 units of alcohol a day. A unit is equal to half a pint of regular strength beer or lager, one small glass of wine or a small (pub measure) of spirits.
Watch your glass size: it's easy to exceed safe limits by using a bigger glass.
Mix and match: if you're at a party or drinking socially, try to have a non-alcoholic drink for every alcoholic drink you consume. Once you've consumed your daily units, drink only soft or non-alcoholic drinks.
This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Trisha Macnair in January 2007.
First published in June 2001.
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