February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease and the importance of heart health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.
(source: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6208a8.htm)
1 in 4 Deaths are due to heart disease
This statistic is alarming, but there are steps that we can take to reduce our risk of heart disease and improve our overall heart health.
One of the most important things we can do to protect our hearts is to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
This includes:
- eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol,
- getting regular exercise
- and maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help lower our risk of heart disease. Additionally, regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, five days a week. I like the talk test method to make sure that you are reaching the right intensity of exercise.
Manage your stress
Another important aspect of heart health is managing our stress levels. Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease by raising our blood pressure and heart rate. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help us manage our stress levels and reduce our risk of heart disease.
It’s also important to have regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your heart health. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other important heart health markers. If you have any risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or medication to help lower your risk.
Signs of a Heart Attack
In addition to these steps, it’s also important to educate ourselves about heart disease and the warning signs of a heart attack. Some common warning signs of a heart attack include:
- chest pain or discomfort
- shortness of breath
- pain or discomfort in the arms, neck, jaw or back
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
In conclusion, heart disease is a serious issue that affects millions of Americans. By taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, and monitor our heart health, we can reduce our risk of heart disease and improve our overall heart health. Take this American Heart Month as an opportunity to focus on your heart health, and make a commitment to take care of your heart for life.
Schedule an appointment today to check your blood pressure and get your cholesterol checked. Call or text 615-266-6465 or schedule online.
