Providence Heart and Vascular Institute Prevention, Education and Outreach Services
Forms & Information
In this guide, you will find important information that will help you better understand what to expect while you are at the hospital and what to expect when you return home following open heart surgery and/or a heart attack.
This book contains helpful information and tips for those who are at risk of developing or who already have heart failure. We hope this book aids your comfort and healing by teaching you how to manage this condition. Your physician and cardiac team are available to assist if you need help or have questions about the appropriateness of this book for you.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that can be found in all parts of your body. It aids in the production of cell membranes, some hormones, and vitamin D. The cholesterol in your blood comes from two sources: the foods you eat and your liver. However, your liver makes all of the cholesterol your body needs.
From the experts
I read in the news recently about a blood test involving C-reactive protein that can predict your risk of heart disease. How does this test differ from cholesterol screening? Should I ask my doctor to give me this test when I go for my next physical?
"I was recently diagnosed with high blood pressure. I'd like to lower it without medications, if I can. What are the best non-drug ways to reduce blood pressure? Is it possible to do this without popping pills?"
Lifestyle changes that will help you reduce your chance of heart attack or stroke.
It is always important to consult with your physician before starting an exercise program. This is particularly true if any of the following apply to your current medical condition:
To determine the number of calories and fat grams you need to consume each day in order to lose or gain weight, consult your physician or a registered dietitian. To maintain your current weight, follow the formula below.
If you are trying to make heart-healthy changes to your lifestyle and diet, it is helpful to know some basics about nutrition – starting with the components of food.
Regular, aerobic physical activity increases a person’s capacity for exercise and plays a role in prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Aerobic exercise may also help to lower blood pressure.
Determining how much you should weigh is not a simple matter of looking at an insurance height-weight chart, but includes considering the amount of bone, muscle, and fat in your body's composition. The amount of fat is the critical measurement.
What health risks are associated with physical inactivity? Lack of physical activity has clearly been shown to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Facts about smoking and cardiovascular disease:
Following are common questions about the relationship of nutrition to heart health, answered by Valerie Edwards, M.S., R.D., L.D., outpatient nutrition therapist, Providence Nutrition Services.
Recommended Resources