As you’re shopping for heart-shaped boxes of candy and cards this month, it’s also a great reminder to consider heart health! February is American Heart Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about maintaining a healthy heart and emphasize the importance of adopting heart-friendly habits. Heart disease remains a significant health concern globally, but the good news is that simple lifestyle changes can substantially reduce the risk.
The Florida referred care providers at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share seven critical strategies to promote heart health and lower the risk of heart disease.
Seven Steps to a Healthier Heart
- Embrace a Heart-Healthy Diet:
A nutritious diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining heart health. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Minimize the intake of saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Opt for heart-boosting foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. - Stay Physically Active:
Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week. Activities such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing contribute to cardiovascular fitness, strengthening the heart and improving overall well-being. - Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for heart health. Excess weight puts strain on the heart and is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Combine a balanced diet with regular exercise to achieve and sustain a healthy weight, reducing the burden on your cardiovascular system. - Manage Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading cause of heart disease. Monitor blood pressure regularly and take steps to keep it within a healthy range. This includes adopting a low-sodium diet, staying physically active, managing stress, and, if necessary, taking prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare professional. - Control Cholesterol Levels:
Elevated cholesterol levels contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. Consume a heart-healthy diet, exercise regularly, and, if needed, take prescribed medications to control cholesterol levels. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers can help monitor and manage cholesterol effectively. - Quit Smoking:
Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke damage blood vessels and contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps individuals can take to improve heart health. Seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or smoking cessation programs to quit successfully. - Limit Alcohol Consumption:
Excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, and an increased risk of heart disease. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. This typically means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
As always, consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and support on your journey to a heart-healthy lifestyle.
A Referred Care Provider Can Make a World of Difference!
The services of a referred care provider from CareTime, American, Advocate, or Whitsyms In-Home Care can further boost heart health for yourself or someone you love, by:
- Planning and preparing heart-healthy meals
- Serving as an exercise or walking buddy to offer motivation to stay physically active
- Monitoring for any changes in condition and reporting them immediately
- Offering friendly companionship to alleviate loneliness and boredom
- And more
Contact us today to find out more about how we can help. Click the link to the location nearest you below:
- American In-Home Care – Serving North, Central, and West Coast of Florida
- Advocate In-Home Care – Serving Southeast and Southwest Florida
- Whitsyms In-Home Care – Serving Southeast and Southwest Florida
- CareTime – Serving Ocala, Florida and the Surrounding Areas
State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 30211751
