Infarction is a serious medical condition that occurs when a part of your body loses its blood supply. This can happen anywhere in the body, but the heart, brain, and lungs are particularly vulnerable.

When it occurs in the heart, it’s called a heart attack. In the brain, it’s called a stroke. And in the lungs, it’s called a pulmonary embolism. Infarction can be life-threatening, so it’s important to take steps to decrease your likelihood of experiencing it. Here are some ways to do that.

1. Quit Smoking

Smoking increases your risk of infarction, so the best thing you can do for your health is to quit smoking. Smoking damages the arteries and veins in your body, making them more prone to blockages.

Nicotine also raises your blood pressure and heart rate, which puts additional strain on your heart. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or find a local smoking cessation program.

2. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to decrease your likelihood of infarction. Exercise strengthens your heart and improves the health of your blood vessels.

It also helps lower your blood pressure, which can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for infarction. Carrying excess weight puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels, which can lead to blockages.

Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is one of the most important things you can do to protect your heart and your overall health.

4. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is essential for preventing infarction. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol levels.

Avoid sugary drinks and limit your intake of alcohol.

5. Control Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for infarction. If you have high blood pressure, work with your doctor to get it under control. This may involve making dietary changes, taking medication, or both.

Keeping your blood pressure under control can significantly reduce your risk of infarction.

6. Manage Your Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which can increase your risk of infarction.

To manage your cholesterol levels, limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, eat plenty of fiber, and consider taking cholesterol-lowering medication if recommended by your doctor.

7. Manage Your Diabetes

Diabetes is a major risk factor for infarction. If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar under control. This may involve making dietary changes, taking medication, or both.

Keeping your blood sugar under control can significantly reduce your risk of infarction.

8. Reduce Your Stress Levels

Stress can have a significant impact on your heart health. Manage your stress levels through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Exercise is also a great way to reduce stress.

9. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for your overall health, including your heart health. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about strategies to improve your sleep.