Many causes of chest pain cannot be prevented. However, there are a few steps people can take to reduce their risk. These include:

• Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight
  
  
• Controlling high blood pressure
  
  
• Managing cholesterol levels
  
  
• Controlling diabetes

• Avoiding tobacco use and second-hand smoke
  
  
• Eating a diet low in saturated and hydrogenated fats and low in cholesterol
  
  
• Eating a diet high in fiber, fruits and vegetables
  
  
• Avoiding any foods that cause gastroesophageal discomfort, which may include fried foods, fatty foods, citrus or tomatoes
  
  
• Exercising three or more hours a week
  
  
• Reducing stress

Patients who make these healthy lifestyle choices can reduce their risk of chest pain by preventing heart disease.