In celebration of American Heart Month, we want to take this opportunity to provide some education regarding heart health and simple steps you can take to have a healthy heart at any age.
Tips for a Healthy Heart at Any Age
Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
If you are currently a smoker or someone who uses smokeless tobacco products, do your heart a favor and quit today! The negative effects of tobacco on the heart and your overall health are endless, just don’t do it!
Diet
Nutrition can lead most of us scratching our heads and wondering what we really should be eating? Keep it simple. Aim to eat a whole food diet and avoid processed foods. Pro-tip is to only shop the outside aisles of the grocery store. Think fresh natural foods, particularly vegetables and leafy greens and lean protein, as these should make up the majority of your diet.
Exercise
According to the American Heart Association, “Adults should get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both preferably spread throughout the week.” Keep it simple and just start by walking more...aim for 8,000-10,000 steps per day.
Regular Physicals
Always be sure to see your doctor for your regular physical exam and be sure to be open and honest with them about any concerns or questions you might have.
Decrease Stress
Aim to de-stress daily and focus on relaxation. Allow yourself an activity daily to help you relax such as meditation, yoga, massage, taking a bath, or another activity that you enjoy.
Sleep
So many of us are sleep deprived and do not realize the effects sleep deprivation can have on our overall health. Do your entire body a favor and always aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep nightly.
Thankfully, there are many ways to keep our hearts healthy on our own each and every day. Combining a healthy lifestyle with regular doctor’s visits will help keep your heart healthy for years to come.