Even as medical budgets continue their astronomical climb, chronic diseases are effecting more and more people. Heart disease is a major risk for millions, and it is just ahead of other disastrous diseases, like cancer, Alzheimer's and osteoporosis. Though there are many theories on the why increases in these diseases has continued despite increasing surgical and pharmaceutical intervention, little is being done to change the causes. Thus, it is up to individuals to learn about techniques of disease prevention and apply them in making lifestyle changes.What Causes Heart Disease?While there is no one answer to the question, several precipitating conditions have been found to greatly increase the risk of heart disease. Hypertension puts extra strain on the heart and weakens blood vessels over time. Unchecked cholesterol, unhealthy fats, and salt in the diet definitely play a role. Inducement of the fight-or-flight response with regular intake of caffeine or chronic stress can weaken the body, especially in the absence of exercise.For an individual interested in disease prevention, it is important to focus on healthy behaviors and habits versus the risk factors. In terms of diet, it is far easier to abstain from poor choices, when the body is nourished by healthy foods. When it comes to stress, everyone must face it, and the best approach is to use a variety of exercises to strengthen the body and increase stress tolerance.How Can Diet and Exercise Aid in Disease Prevention?The old refrain of 'you are what you eat' is literally a true statement. Introducing traditional foods to the diet, like home-made porridge, yogurt and steamed vegetables, may seem difficult to people constantly on the go, but it can be made easier with a few appliances. A food dehydrator and rice steamer featuring a timer can help in preparing nutritious snacks and ensuring a wholesome meal is waiting after work.Most people imagine exercise to be time spent on the treadmill or weight bench, but modern conceptions of exercise for disease prevention are changing. Endurance and strength training offer many benefits, but they should occur alongside an exercise program that promotes mental acuity, emotional stability and awareness of the body. Another important part of disease prevention is to avoid environmental and dietary toxins. Poor air quality and chemicals added to processed foods put a lot of stress on the body.Disease prevention begins with taking personal responsibility for health.