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Lifestyle measures and cardiovascular prevention

These general principles complement consultations and prescribed treatments; they do not replace them. They must be adapted to age, symptoms, other conditions and each patient's abilities. Gradual, lasting improvement is preferable to very restrictive or abrupt changes.

A heart-healthy diet

Prefer a Mediterranean-style diet: varied vegetables with each meal, whole fruit, pulses, whole grains, fish, unsalted nuts and vegetable oils, particularly olive oil. A simple plate can combine a generous portion of vegetables, a protein source and a suitable portion of whole-grain carbohydrates. Limit ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, cured and processed meats, and foods high in saturated fat.

Salt: aim for less than 5 g per day unless you have specific medical advice. Taste before adding salt and avoid routinely adding extra. Limit ready meals, stock cubes, sauces, very salty cheese, cured meats and savoury snacks. Read labels to identify hidden salt. With heart failure, kidney disease or diuretic treatment, salt and fluid intake must be personalised with your medical team.

Regular physical activity

When cardiovascular health permits, gradually aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity per week, such as 30 minutes of brisk walking on five days, plus two weekly sessions of suitable strength training. Reduce prolonged sitting by standing and walking regularly. Build up gradually. Stop exercising and seek medical advice if chest pain, faintness, unusual palpitations or abnormal breathlessness occurs.

Smoking, alcohol and sleep

Stopping smoking completely, including avoiding passive exposure, is one of the most effective ways to reduce cardiovascular risk. Smoking fewer cigarettes does not remove the risk; medical or smoking-cessation support can help. Alcohol is not recommended for heart protection: less is better. Keep regular sleep hours and consider sleep apnoea assessment, particularly with snoring, observed breathing pauses, sleepiness, atrial fibrillation or hard-to-control hypertension.

Weight, blood pressure and follow-up

When excess weight is present, gradual weight loss can improve blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnoea symptoms and cardiovascular risk. If home blood pressure monitoring is requested, use a correctly sized upper-arm cuff, sit quietly for a few minutes and follow the given protocol. Take medication regularly and never stop or change it without medical advice.

Further reading — French Federation of Cardiology

The following resources are in French.

This is general information and does not replace personalised advice.

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