Did you know that chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, are often preventable?[1] It’s important to stay ahead of your health and work to prevent these diseases. This can include lifestyle changes, early detection of any issues, and ongoing management of any health issues you may be experiencing. See below for some additional tips for staying ahead!

Take Action. Making lifestyle changes can be a great defense against health issues such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.[2] This includes eating nutritious foods, getting quality sleep, managing stress, reducing alcohol consumption and getting active daily.
Update Your Nutrition. A low-sodium, low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help lower your risk for illness.[3] Start by making small swaps,[4] such as choosing canned fruits in juice rather than syrup and using nonstick spray instead of greasing pans with butter. You can also add fiber and fish oil supplements to help naturally lower your cholesterol.[5]
Watch Your Health Numbers. Knowing your cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and weight are essential risk indicators for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. There are also tools to help you learn about your health risk, including the Diabetes Risk Test on the Higi station, powered by the American Diabetes Association, as well as the Heart Health Risk Test (coming soon), powered by the American College of Cardiology. Visit a Higi station today to better understand your numbers.
Know Your Family History. Having a family history of certain chronic diseases, like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or osteoporosis, may make you more likely to develop that disease yourself. This information can be important to share with your doctor in order to get guidance in how to take steps to reduce the risk from these conditions.[6]

Learn more about prevention and improving your quality of life at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

[1] The Growing Crisis of Chronic Disease in the United States. Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease.

[2] Heart Disease Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

[3] Poor Nutrition. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

[4] Follow these healthy guidelines to update your eating style and improve your nutrition profile. American Heart Association.

[5] From Fiber to Fish Oil: Natural Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol. Cleveland Clinic.

[6] Family Health History. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.