Tips for Keeping Your Heart Healthy

February evokes thoughts of chocolate and cupid as Valentine’s Day comes to mind.  But there is another reason to focus on hearts, and we’re not talking about the candy variety.  It is American Heart Month, the opportunity to focus on cardiovascular health.  Small lifestyle considerations can make a world of difference to our health and hearts.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women as well as people of most racial and ethnic groups in the US.   Someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.  With some mindful changes, self-care for heart health is possible at any age.

Eat for Health:  Adopting a diet that limits sodium and saturated fat is essential to prevent heart disease.  The key to staving off hypertension include a meal plan that is rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, poultry, fish, nuts and beans.  Keep sugar to a minimum.

Incorporate Exercise:  Simply exercising for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week will help your heart. Even if that means breaking physical activity into 10 or 15 minute segments like a brisk walk, you’ll be able to attain your goals. Plus, the endorphin boost will elevate your mood!

Stop Smoking:  Smoking is bad for your health and in particular, the chemicals in tobacco smoke are detrimental to your heart and blood vessels. Let your friends or family know of your plan to quit so they can support you as well as be your accountability partners.

Keep Up With Your Medical Appointments:  Remember to take your prescribed medications and schedule your regular doctor appointments.  Maintaining your health is essential to your wellbeing.

Make Sleep a Priority:  Chronic poor quality of sleep has a direct impact on your health, increasing the risk of heart disease and elevated blood pressure.  Set a schedule for sleep and try to stick to it to achieve 7-8 hours of sleep each evening.

Make heart health a priority this Valentine’s Day and all year long.  Help your loved ones to make good choices to protect their wellness too. CarePatrol is here to guide your family when senior care solutions are needed. Reach out and know that you’re never alone.