INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Experts at Eskenazi Health say focusing on nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep and stress management is key to preventing cardiovascular disease.

A heart-healthy diet emphasizes nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins while limiting sodium, added sugars and unhealthy fats.

Eating patterns like the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Mediterranean diets are linked to improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Lindsay Dirlam, an outpatient clinical dietitian specialist at Eskenazi Health, said many people feel overwhelmed when trying to adopt new health habits. She recommends starting with small changes, like reducing one soda a day or adding a vegetable to a meal, instead of making drastic changes that can...