How are you protecting your 💗 health this month?
This resonates with me today as a close friend is undergoing a catheterization procedure 😔 in the operating room, and her husband experienced a heart attack 💔 just a month ago.
Schedule your yearly wellness visit with your primary care physician, and don't hesitate to discuss any symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem, as they could signify something more significant.
Take these five proactive steps you can take today to enhance your heart health:
🚶♂️ Prioritize Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Incorporate activities like brisk walking, cycling 🚵♂️ , or swimming 🏊♀️ to get your heart pumping and strengthen cardiovascular health.
🥗 Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins 🦐 , and healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and oily fish. Limit intake of saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.
🚭 Quit Smoking: If you smoke, take steps to quit today. Smoking damages blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and raises the risk of heart disease. Seek support from healthcare professionals, smoking cessation programs, or support groups to help you quit for good.
🧘♀️ Manage Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart health. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature. Finding healthy ways to manage stress can lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.
😴 Get Sufficient Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep habits have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other health conditions. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, and create a comfortable sleep environment to promote restorative sleep.
By incorporating these lifestyle changes into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps towards improving your heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems in the future.
As we celebrate #AmericanHeartMonth throughout February, below you will find some facts about heart disease in the United States. 🫀
#HeartDisease #CardiovascularHealth #ValueBasedCare #HeartMonth
American Heart Association
Senior Development Director at the American Heart Assocation, Hawai'i. Background in social work and healthcare turned into fuel for fundraising.
4moYou all rock! Mahalo nui loa for joining us early on a Saturday morning and being such steadfast partners all year long. Can't wait to see you again soon!