Superdrug is supporting World Heart Day – a national event on Tuesday, September 29 which highlights heart disease and stroke as the world’s leading causes of death – and Stoptober – a 28-day challenge to stop smoking which takes place throughout October.

Around one in three adults – equating to 16 million people – across Britain have high blood pressure while as many as seven million people in the UK are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure, without knowing they are at risk.

Roughly one-in-five deaths from heart disease are directly related to smoking.

But Superdrug ais on hand to give advice and help for people to keep fit and healthy.

A spokeswoman from the Helensburgh store said: “People can take steps to keep their hearts healthy with the basics.

“Eat healthily, exercise regularly, stop smoking, and keep away from second-hand smoke and drink alcohol only in moderation.

“You should also take steps to keep your cholesterol and blood pressure low as these simple measures can all help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

“There are many vitamins and supplements on the market right now to help keep hearts healthy.

Odourless garlic, omega-three fish oil supplements and even food products such as OatWell Crispy Hearts oat bran can help to reduce your blood cholesterol levels, and are great ways to help maintain a healthy heart and circulation.

“You can also buy inexpensive home blood pressure monitors to keep track of your levels regularly.” Keeping healthy is the best way to prevent ill health but Superdrug also offer a variety of services in store for people to keep an eye on their health and get help when they need it.

The spokeswoman added: “Superdrug pharmacies and doctor’s surgeries offer many services for those who are worried about their heart health.

“Superdrug pharmacies run stop smoking advice clinics and can check your blood pressure free of charge.

“We are in the process of training a number of pharmacy team members to become ‘health champions’ – involving a qualification awarded by the Royal Society for Public Health. We hope to have at least one champion in every Superdug Pharamcy by the middle of next year.”