Behavioral Counseling to Promote a Healthful Diet and Physical Activity for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Adults Without Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Recommendation Statement.

Cardiovascular disease, primarily in the forms of heart disease and stroke, is a leading cause of death in the United States.1 Obesity is associated with increased CVD mortality.2 Adults who adhere to national guidelines for a healthful diet 3 and physical activity 4 have lower cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than those who do not. All persons, regardless of CVD risk status, can accrue the health benefits of improved nutrition, healthy eating behaviors, and increased physical activity.5