What can I do to prevent and/or slow down the development of atherosclerosis? Life style changes to decrease the risk of the development of atherosclerosis are the best weapons in the fight against heart disease. Life style changes include the following: quit smoking, decrease fat intake, replace intake of saturated fats with unsaturated fats, reduce stress levels, develop healthy habits to manage stress, lose weight, maintain a healthy weight, engage in physical activity on a regular basis and maintain a healthy diet. Decrease your risk of coronary atherosclerosis today by modifying your life style.