February is American Heart Month. The American Heart Association gives 7 simple rules to live better and to take care of your heart. For more information, visit our February issue of Building Strong Families.
- Avoid smoking and using tobacco products. Using tobacco puts yourself and loved ones at a higher risk for heart disease.
- Be physically active every day. Kids should be active for at least 60 minutes a day. Be a role model for your children and be active with them at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet. When you eat a heart-healthy diet, you improve your chances for feeling good and staying healthy – for life! Include colorful fruits and vegetables in every meal.
- Keep a healthy weight. When you shed extra fat and unnecessary pounds, you reduce the burden on your heart, lungs, blood vessels and skeleton.
- Keep your blood pressure healthy. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
- Keep your total cholesterol healthy. High cholesterol contributes to plaque, which can clog arteries and lead to heart disease and stroke.
- Keep your blood sugar healthy. Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) that our bodies use for energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.
Source: American Heart Association
By: Ashley Svaty
