(BPT) - For millions of Americans, the battle against heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions goes on year round.

About 600,000 people die from heart disease in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, making heart disease the leading cause of death for both men and women.

Here are fi ve simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and improve your overall health.

1. Take control of cholesterol with oat fi ber: Numerous studies spanning a decade or more of research support the claim that dietary fi ber from whole grains, as part of an overall healthy diet, helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower the risk of heart disease.

2. Better your blood pressure: Nearly one-third of all American adults have high blood pressure and more than half of them don’t have it under control, according to the CDC.

The risks that accompany uncontrolled high blood pressure are serious. However, taking easy steps will lower that risk.

3. Keep your blood fl owing: Products are now available that provide a natural way to help promote healthy blood fl ow by supporting normal platelet function.

A tomato-based concentrate made from select Mediterranean tomatoes called Fruitfl ow is a natural, healthy and safe ingredient that has been proven through clinical research to keep platelets smooth, thereby promoting healthy blood fl ow.

4. Decrease infl ammation: Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA and EPA may help reduce infl ammation and may also help lower risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease.

5. Shed the layers: It’s nothing new. We know that being overweight puts us at risk for numerous health problems, including an increased risk of both heart disease and stroke.

The change in seasons can serve as the perfect springboard into a new exercise routine.