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February is Healthy Heart month and All Care is pleased to publish a 4-part blog series about heart disease, its effects, warning signs, and how to incorporate healthy habits to increase the health of your heart.

Part II: Heart Disease Prevention:

heartcheckWhile certain risk factors of heart disease are completely out of one’s control (family history, age, and gender, for example), other risk factors such as weight, cholesterol level, stress, diabetes, and high blood pressure can all be addressed to help the prevention of heart disease.  In Part II of our February blog series on heart health, we will be discussing steps to take to help prevent the onset of heart disease and to keep it controlled in those who are already effected.

 

As mentioned above, there are many different risk factors for heart disease, some which are avoidable while others are genetic.  A woman can’t change her gender to alter her risk for heart disease but she can take the necessary steps to keep her heart healthy.

Here are some helpful tips on how to prevent heart disease from becoming a health issue for you:

  • Don’t Use Tobacco Products- Everyone knows that smoking and second hand smoke are not good for you but quitting smoking can significantly lower your risk for heart disease
  • Manage Stress- Stress takes a toll on your body and can raise blood pressure and heart rate
  • Get Enough Quality Sleep- Sleep deprivation can put you at risk for obesity, heart attack, high blood pressure, diabetes, & depression so it’s important to make time for quality sleep
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight- Not only is it more difficult for your heart to function at higher weights, you also put yourself at risk for other health problems that can raise your risk of heart disease
  • Eat a Heart Healthy Diet- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can protect your heart, we will be addressing his more in Part III of our blog series “Healthy Heart Eating Habits”
  • Consistent Physical Activity– Did you know that you should have 4 minutes of physical activity for every one hour you spend seated? Part IV of our blog series “Heart Healthy Living” will focus on how to incorporate physical activity into your lifestyle even if you don’t have the time or the ability to exercise regularly

 

While some things will always be out of your control, following these simple tips will greatly increase the health of your heart and the quality of your life!