Wednesday, February 8, 2012

February is Heart Month: Get a Start and Help Your Heart

Cardiovascular disease, which includes diseases of the heart, brain and blood vessels,  is the number one killer of both men and women (yes, women, too) in the United States. February is “American Heart Month”. Start now with healthier habits that work towards enhancing your heart, brain and vascular health and help reduce your risk of developing Type II Diabetes. 
  • If you smoke, STOP! Not only does smoking cause various cancers and COPD; it damages blood vessels which leads to high blood pressure, strokes, heart attacks and kidney disease.
  • Maintain a healthy weight for your height and frame size.
  • Monitor your blood pressure. For optimal health, blood pressure should be below 120/80. High blood pressure damages blood vessels setting the stage for heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease (like smoking does).
  • Eat a healthy diet that includes lean proteins, whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits and is low in fat, excess salt and sugars. Try to incorporate healthy monounsaturated fats in your diet such as olive oil.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes daily most days of the week.
  • If you drink alcohol, consume in moderation.
  • Talk to your doctor about fish oil and low dose aspirin therapy to see if these are right for you.
Check out these links for more healthy living tips:
http://carole-jakucs.blogspot.com/2012/01/foods-that-lower-your-blood-pressure-3.html
http://carole-jakucs.blogspot.com/2012/01/6-tips-to-prevent-dining-out-from.html

*Contact your doctor prior to starting any exercise program and for any questions or concerns you may have about your health or the points above.

See the websites below for more web based information:

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