Supporting our Heart Health

What heart-healthy practices are you striving for this season during American Heart Month?

Given the prevalence of heart disease which is the leading cause of death for women, men, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S., heart-healthy practices that extend into the entire year as part of a self-care routine can help prevent and lower your risk of developing it.

~Eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats

~Focusing on plant-based foods along with choosing foods high in fiber and low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol while limiting salt, sugar, and alcohol

~Getting in - you guessed it - regular exercise and physical activity (PA) and aiming for the recommended 150-300 minutes of moderate intensity to vigorous intensity cardiovascular PA weekly

For more exercise guidelines and benefits, check out Exercise & Our Immune System!

~Trying to reach or stay at a healthy weight

~Keeping medical appointments, getting your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels checked, and taking medications as prescribed

~Sleeping 7-8 hours a night

~Managing stress through positive social connections & activities, prayer and/or meditation, and relaxation time

For more ideas, I invite you to explore Recognizing & Coping with Stress. 

Sources:

CDC Prevent Heart Disease

NIH Self-Care Tips for Heart Health