Factors to Consider in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention:

The American Heart Association has identified seven “ideal factors” that support cardiovascular disease prevention:

1. Smoking cessation;
2. Maintaining a healthy weight;
3. Engaging in regular physical activity;
4. Eating a healthy diet;
5. Managing blood pressure;
6. Taking charge of cholesterol; and
7. Keeping blood sugar, or glucose, at healthy level.

Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Strategies:  A Spotlight on Healthy Eating

One strategy to promote cardiovascular disease prevention and cardiovascular health is engaging youth with and without disabilities in healthy eating. A tool that promotes healthy eating is the “Healthy Eating Plate.”

The units of the Healthy Eating Plate include categories of healthy foods to eat and related

1. Vegetables,
2. Fruits,
3. Whole Grains,
4. Healthy Proteins,
5. Healthy Oils, and
6. Water.