Highlights | Love Your Heart
- It’s American Heart Month.
- Advice on diet and exercise.
- Plus, strategies to start prioritizing your heart health.
Welcome to February, the month that’s all heart.
While Valentine’s Day gets most of the attention, February is also American Heart Month, and Feb. 7 has been designated National Wear-Red-to-Work Day to draw attention to the fact that cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of women.
The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests a few ways we can all watch out for our health.
Get moving
The AHA recommends at least an hour and a half of moderate physical activity per week, or an hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity. Adding a few steps every day — talking the stairs instead of the elevator, for example, or parking a little farther away — can add up fast. See the AHA’s tip sheet for getting started and staying motivated. Check the Whole U for local events and inspiration.
Discuss your diet and exercise plans with your doctor.
Eat well
You can have a heart-healthy diet regardless of whether you prepare meals at home, order from restaurants or purchase prepared meals. Always read the nutrition labels and ingredient lists on packaged foods. Choose items with less sodium, added sugars and saturated fat. You can also look for the Heart Checkmark icon to find foods that have been certified as healthy by the AHA.
Want more ideas for what to eat (and what not to eat) for a healthier heart? Boost your cardiovascular health with heart-healthy diet tips from Right as Rain.
Avoid nicotine
To reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, the AHA recommends avoiding even second-hand smoke or vaping. Quitting can be difficult. Multiple strategies are available to help. Here are five steps from the AHA to help you plan and succeed. You will also find resources to help family members and encourage and support loved ones who are trying to quit.
Want to learn more? Here are a few more tips on how to show your heart some love.
Editor’s Note: This article has been reviewed by medical editor Michael McCarthy, MD.