With Valentine’s Day behind us and the end of February coming before us, I wanted to touch on something that is very important to me- so important that I spend everyday working with this population! (see about the author below). The American Heart Association makes February “American Heart Month.” Many of you have probably heard about it by one of its many other names including, “Go Red for Women.” However, the month of February is not just about wearing a red shirt or a red pin, it’s about raising awareness of heart disease and how to prevent it!
Some statistics about heart disease:
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women
- Coronary heart disease, or the disease of the vessels supplying blood directly to the heart tissue, is the most common type of heart disease
- Someone, in the United States, has a heart attack every 40 seconds.
- Nearly half of all US adults have some form of cardiovascular disease
However, even though heart disease is one of the most prevalent and serious categories of diseases for all ages, it is also one of the most preventable. Through the proper education and support systems, your risk for developing heart disease can be greatly reduced!
Ways to reduce your risk of heart disease:
- Choose heart healthy foods like lean meats, fruits, and vegetables
- Limit foods high in saturated/trans fat, refined carbs, and added sugars
- Get regular physical activity
- Aim for a healthy weight
- Learn ways to manage stress
- Quit smoking
- Get more good-quality sleep
- Get regular physicals and blood work ordered by your physician especially if you have other chronic conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or elevated cholesterol levels
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions, do research, and get involved with your own health!
You are in control of your health and wellness! With the proper tools, education, support, and guidance anyone can be equipped to reduce their risk of heart disease! Here at CFR, we pride ourselves in helping supply you with the tools necessary to foster lifelong health and wellness through the basics of functional fitness, healthy habits, and sound nutritional building blocks! But remember, those who already have chronic conditions should continue to follow up with their primary physician.
Blog by Elizabeth Haughey
About the Author:
Elizabeth is a Registered Nurse who has 2 years experience working with stroke patients and two years experience working with cardiac patients. She is also more recently a CF-L1 Trainer and PN-1 Nutrition Coach, and is passionate about leading a healthy lifestyle!
