February is American Heart Month! While nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes, cardiovascular diseases continue to be a huge health threat. To treat, beat and prevent heart disease and stroke, Americans should understand family health history, know their five key personal health numbers to help determine risk and make healthy behavior changes like moving more, eating smart and managing blood pressure.
While there are so many ways to start getting your health into tip-top shape, here are 3 easy tips for caring for your heart this Heart Month.
- Eat Smart and Add Color
Healthy eating starts with healthy food choices. Any easy first step is to add color and include fruits and vegetables at every meal. Whether it’s fresh, frozen, canned, or dried – all colors count! Take sodium out of your meals and off your dinner tables too. Most sodium comes from prepackaged foods, so make sure to check your ingredients at the grocery store.
- Move More
We get it, you’re just getting into a fitness routine. A good starting goal is at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. But don’t sweat the numbers, just try moving more! A walk, some yoga, rock climbing, whatever you like to do! Even simple changes like parking further away from the grocery store or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can be great ways to move a little more.
- Be Well
While eating right and exercising are big components to heart health, your mental health is just as important. Getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness, managing stress, and connecting socially are all easy ways to make your mind and body a little healthier. Incorporating positive self-talk, walks in nature, or time with your friends are great ways to reduce stress.
For more tips, please visit heart.org/healthyforgood.