Prevention of atherosclerosis reduces the risk for ischemic bowel disease. Other conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. These illnesses must be well-managed, in order to minimize the progression of atherosclerosis.

Prevention of atherosclerosis includes:

• High cholesterol treatment
• Diabetes treatment
• If you have diabetes:
• Check your blood sugar every day.
• Keep a log of your results.
• High blood pressure treatment
• If you have high blood pressure:
• Learn how to take your blood pressure.
• Check your blood pressure every day.
• Keep a log of your results.
• Eat a healthy diet:
• Eat a low cholesterol diet.
• Eat a low fat diet.
• Stop smoking.
• Avoid exposure to secondary smoke.
• Regular exercise program
• Weight loss if you are overweight
• Take prescribed medications as directed.
• Vitamin B supplements
• Avoid alcohol, or drink alcohol in moderation:
• For men: no more than 2 alcoholic beverages per day
• For women: no more than 1 alcoholic beverage per day