What lifestyle changes will the nurse recommend to a myocardial infarction (MI) patient?

• A. Smoke more
• B. Exercise
• C. Ignore diet
• D. High-fat diet

Answer: (B)

Regular aerobic exercise after a myocardial infarction is a key strategy for improving recovery and reducing future risk. It strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and raises overall cardiovascular fitness. Exercise helps optimize lipid levels, blood pressure, and body weight, and it also improves glucose metabolism, all of which lower atherosclerotic risk. Beyond physical benefits, it can boost mood and lessen anxiety or depression, which supports sticking with other healthy habits. Because of these widespread advantages, a structured, patient-tolerated exercise plan is the best single lifestyle change to recommend. In contrast, increasing smoking, neglecting diet, or following a high-fat diet would worsen outcomes and are not appropriate for recovery.