Posted by Heart Hugger on Feb 18, 2019 1:56:50 PM
Since 1964, the month of February has been a time to create awareness about cardiovascular disease. During American Heart Month, Americans take the time to educate themselves about heart disease and promote heart-healthy habits among family members and friends.
Begin Taking Steps to Keep Your Heart Healthy
- See your doctor. There's a reason why high blood pressure is sometimes called the silent killer. Without regular check-ups, you may not know your risk of heart disease until it's too late. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, talk with you about your family medical history, and answer any questions you may have about the causes and symptoms of heart disease.
- Begin an exercise program. American Heart Month is a great time to make exercise a part of your routine. Aerobic exercises like walking and swimming get the heart moving and can help lower blood pressure and strengthen your heart. Strength training builds muscle and can reduce the strain on your heart as it pumps blood through your body.
- Develop heart-healthy food habits. You don't have to go on a bland diet as a part of your heart-healthy lifestyle. Foods like salmon, nuts, berries, dark beans, oatmeal, and dark chocolate are delicious additions to your diet that work overtime to make a difference in your cardiovascular health.
- Give up smoking. You can use American Heart Month as motivation to quit smoking for good. In just one year after quitting, you can dramatically reduce your risk of stroke. Stay away from smoking for five years, and your risk of stroke is roughly the same as your non-smoking friends. Those are some benefits worth pursuing!
Join the millions of Americans who use American Heart Month to begin healthy, new habits today!
