About 62 million Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and over a million die from these conditions each year, according to the American Heart Association. In fact, more women die of heart disease than breast cancer. What you may not realize is that there are steps you can take to change this statistic!

Often, heart disease can be prevented by adopting a weight-healthy lifestyle that emphasizes healthy fats, lean proteins, the right carbs, and a regular fitness routine. These principles are the foundation of The South Beach Heart Health Revolution, written by Dr. Arthur Agatston, preventive cardiologist, associate professor of medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and author of The South Beach Diet Supercharged. His goal is to help people understand and adopt his aggressive approach to preventing heart attacks and strokes.

Here are just a few ways to reduce your risk of developing heart disease:

1. Eat a heart-healthy diet that includes whole grains, good fats (like those from omega-3-rich fish, extra-virgin olive oil, and nuts), plenty of fruits and vegetables, beans, low-fat dairy products, and lean sources of protein (like skinless poultry breasts and lean cuts of beef, such as tenderloin and top round).
2. Exercise regularly. It will help improve blood chemistry, reduce stress, dampen inflammation, and improve cardiovascular fitness. Dr. Agatston recommends 20 minutes of interval walking every other day, which means that you will alternate between short bursts of fast walking and periods of walking at a slower pace. With interval training, the higher the intensity of the exercise, the longer the afterburn; that is, you will continue to burn more fat and calories even while at rest! Ideally, on days when you are doing core strengthening exercises instead of interval walking, try to also fit in a 15- 20-minute recreational walk when you have the time.  
3. Maintain a healthy weight. This is especially important if you are considered obese (designated as a BMI of 30 or above). The closer you are to your recommended weight (a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered ideal), the less strain there is on your heart.
4. Quit smoking. Even if you've tried before, there are now many methods and organizations to help you kick the habit. Ask your doctor for his or her recommendations.
5. Lower stress and learn to manage your anger. Maybe this means making only the commitments you can handle, or maybe you'll want to try relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.

Dr. Agatston maps out his aggressive approach to preventing heart disease in The South Beach Heart Health Revolution. The book includes advice on eating right, exercising regularly, and partnering with your doctor to get the right diagnostic tests and, if necessary, lifesaving medications. For the comprehensive four-step plan that can save your life, order your copy of The South Beach Heart Health Revolution today, or visit us at southbeachdiet.com/heart.