February is American Heart Month which is sponsored by the American Heart Association. Not only can you celebrate Valentine’s Day during this month but it is also a time to remember the importance of American heart health.
Heart disease is the leading factor for death in the United States. However, there are many prevention tactics that can be used in order to avoid the disease. Living a heart healthy lifestyle can significantly decrease your chances of contracting this disease. Living a healthy lifestyle and exercising regularly are two factors that help you keep your heart healthy.
As for your diet:
- Eat vegetables, fruits, grains, and fiber.
- Make sure you are using low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
- Watch out for the amount of salt you are eating in your diet.
- Eat fish that is high in omega-3 acids.
- Control your diet with portion control.
- Try to limit the amount of saturated and trans-fat you eat.
Exercise:
- Always stretch before and after exercising to prepare your body for exercise and to prevent any injuries from occurring.
- To strengthen your heart and lung’s it is important to do cardiovascular and aerobic activity. After some time, aerobics can help decrease heart rate and blood pressure.
- Running, swimming, and cycling are all great activities that will help you strengthen your heart.
- All you need is about 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day to maintain a healthy heart.
One of the worst things you can do to your heart is to smoke. Smoking cigarettes dramatically increases your risk for heart disease and it worsens other factors that can lead to heart disease. Take control of your habits and stop smoking. People who smoke have a 50% higher chance of contracting heart disease then those who do not smoke.
Overall, heart health is extremely important and something that really should not be taken for granted. Heart disease can be preventable. Living a healthy lifestyle that consists of a nutritious diet and a moderate amount of exercise can really help keep your heart healthy and disease-free.