February celebrates American Heart Month. This is a time to focus on the dangers of heart disease and what you can do to stay heart healthy!
Change your diet: Changing your diet can be one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk for heart disease. Avoid foods filled with artificial ingredients and those that are high in fat. If your diet is filled with fatty, processed foods it is possible that this can lead to hypertension or high-cholesterol. Try reducing your intake of red meat by replacing it with lean turkey. Also make sure your meals are balanced and filled with colorful, antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables.
Keep Moving! A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for heart disease, so get up and keep moving. A diet filled with whole-grains, lean protein, and fruits and vegetables should give you the energy you need to get out there! If you are just starting out, try jogging or going for a long walk. If you are looking for a more challenging way to get your heart rate up, try something fast-paced like kickboxing or CrossFit. It is recommended that you get at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
Visit Your Cardiologist: If you have a history of heart disease, visiting your cardiologist to monitor your condition is a smart move! They can help recommend a healthy plan that is right for you based on your personal condition and history of health issues. Preventative care is always a great way to reduce your risk for cardiovascular issues.
Take a Natural Supplement: A natural supplement filled with important vitamins and minerals could be an important tool in your fight against heart disease. Often, many Americans are missing vital nutrients in their diets. Find a natural supplement that has ingredients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Magnesium, and more. Talk to your cardiologist about how adding a natural supplement to your daily routine can improve your overall heart health.
Knowing the facts is half the battle! With such a high risk of heart disease for Americans, it is essential to know how to reduce the impact on your heart and the preventative care measures which would be best for you. While heart disease can affect you at any age, those over 40 are at greater risk for developing complications. Find a healthcare routine that works for you and take a stand for heart health awareness all year round!
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