RESIDENTS in Worcestershire are being encouraged to make three "fundamental" changes to their lives in a bid to reduce their risk of developing heart disease.

The plea has come from the charity the National Heart Research Fund after it claimed more people in the UK die from the disease than any other condition.

Worcestershire spokeswoman Anita Hurree said: "Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat is the first step towards reducing the risk of heart disease.

"This does not have to be boring. There are plenty of great recipes that are healthy and taste great.

Vegetables

"Increasing the amount of fruit and vegetables in your diet will also help to protect your heart."

She said making physical activity part of your daily routine is also essential and adults should do about 30 minutes of moderate exercise fives times a week.

"Do something you enjoy or do it with friends. That way you are more likely to keep it going," said Ms Hurree.

"Smoking also doubles the risk of getting heart disease and contributes towards many other life-threatening conditions.

"Studies shows that in the first two or three years after stopping smoking, the increased risk will be cut in half.

"After 10 years, the risk will be the same as a non-smoker."

For more information and advice about healthy living, contact the National Heart Research Fund on 0113 297 6205 or email lifestyle@heartresearch.org.uk