Heart health lifestyle guidance

In early July, health experts emphasized two simple actions—daily walking of at least 30 minutes and consuming oily fish twice a week—to lower cholesterol and support cardiovascular health. By late July, cardiologists expanded the guidance, urging at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, short movement breaks throughout the day, and a diet low in saturated fat, sugar and salt, together with stress management, regular check‑ups and consistent sleep.

Later in July and early August, further details were added. Cardiologists highlighted that even a 10‑minute morning walk contributes to a 20‑30 % reduction in early‑mortality risk, and recommended breaking up prolonged sitting with brief activity every two hours. A variety of cardio options—brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming—were encouraged, as were enjoyable routines such as listening to music or exercising with friends. Nutrition specialists warned that high‑heat frying of fish can destroy omega‑3 fatty acids and generate harmful compounds; they advised moderate heat, fresh oil, and limited reuse to preserve nutrients, and reiterated the WHO limit of 5 g of salt per day. The Vietnamese Ministry of Health issued a handbook for chronic‑condition patients, recommending 150–300 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75–150 minutes of vigorous activity weekly, plus twice‑weekly strength training and balance work for older adults.