02/01/2024
February is Heart Health Month!
February is American Heart Month, a time when all people are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health. Here are some tips to help you improve your heart health and reduce your risk of developing heart disease:
Stay active. Physical activity can lower your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, as well as help you maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
Eat healthy. A balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can protect your heart and lower your risk of diabetes and stroke. Avoid foods that are high in sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, added sugar, and cholesterol, as they can increase your blood pressure and damage your arteries.
Quit smoking. Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable death and a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Quitting smoking can improve your blood circulation, lower your blood pressure and heart rate, and reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Manage stress. Stress can negatively affect your mental and physical health, and increase your blood pressure and heart rate. Chronic stress can also lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as overeating, smoking, or drinking alcohol. To cope with stress, try to practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or tai chi.
Know your numbers. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar are all risk factors for heart disease and stroke, but they often have no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get regular check-ups and screenings from your doctor and monitor your numbers at home.
One of the best tools to support heart healthy decision-making is the Nutrition Facts label. Research has shown that excess sodium consumption is a factor that contributes to the development of high blood pressure, which is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke. With over 70% of most dietary sodium coming from packaged and prepared foods, teaching your communities to be label-savvy can help them lower their daily sodium intake.