American Heart Month: The Importance of Heart Health

February 11, 2016

Health is important, make sure your heart is healthy for American Heart Month.

Modern America isn’t exactly known for our great health practices. The truth is a large percentage of the American population is overweight, and heart disease remains one of the leading killers in the US. However, the Center for Disease Control and Million Hearts is looking to change America’s health. As part of the initiative of American Heart Month each February, such organizations hope to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes by 2017. Join the fight for a healthy heart and check out these tips to keep you and your family heart healthy.

Exercise often.

We’re not designed to sit at a desk all day long. Be sure to get up and move more. Stretch on your lunch break, choose the stairs over the elevator, or take an evening stroll. The average adult needs about 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. The more you move, the healthier your heart and the better you’ll feel.

Eat a healthy diet.

It’s no secret that what you eat can affect your health. Strive to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet and reduce your intake of animal products. Animal products can increase your risk of high cholesterol which can lead to hardening of the arteries. Also, be sure to watch your salt intake. Sodium can raise your blood pressure, leading to more serious heart disease such as heart attacks and stroke.

Reduce stress.

Stress seems to be a staple in our lives, but it has a plethora of negative health effects. It increases our risk for obesity, anxiety, depression, and heart disease. Find ways to de-stress to help your heart health. Try exercise, meditation, or even socializing to help keep your stress levels in check.

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