February is quite the celebratory month. While we honor Black History, give love on Valentine’s Day, and commemorate on Presidents' Day, we also need to remember it is American Heart Month! That’s right, show your heart some love!!
Did you know, heart disease is still the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States? In fact, per The American Heart Association, every year 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. That’s a huge statistic! That means, each of you will either know someone or be someone to suffer from this issue.
Heart disease is strongly influenced by lifestyle behaviors (i.e. diet, exercise, sleep, stress, etc.). By making small, but powerful, changes in your daily routine, you can fight against heart disease.
Here are my Top 5 Healthy Heart Habits you should start today:
1.) Less meat and MORE veggies! Aim for half your plate to be heart healthy veggies such as:
leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, garlic, onions.
2.) Swap soda for water. Try switching out 1-2 glasses of soda or juice for a glass of water.
Drinking at least 8 cups (or 64oz) daily gives your organs the proper hydration needed for
optimal function.
3.) Move it!!! Just 20 minutes of exercise, 3 times a week, can significantly reduce your risk for
heart disease and diabetes. You’ll feel more energized too!
4.) Sleep is for winners! Receiving 7-8hrs of sleep per a night is crucial for your body to reset
and repair. You might even notice less anxiety and improve blood pressure too—triple win!!
5.) Be happy!! There was a research study on a small Mediterranean town that revealed nobody
died from heart disease despite having less than stellar diets. The reason? Happiness! This
town’s happy quotient was insane! Everybody loved their life and community. As such, it
highlighted a valuable lesson on the importance of happiness. No matter the day you’re having,
find something that makes you laugh or smile. Your heart is better off for it!
Curious about your heart health? We have a fantastic lab panels at SNMC that will set you up for success in the battle against heart disease. Call today, 916-446-2591, to inquire about our Godby and Boston Heart panels, and we’ll show both you and your heart the love it deserves!