Are you at risk for heart disease?
During the month of February, Americans see the human heart as the symbol of love. February is American Heart Month, a time to show yourself the love. Learn about your risks for heart disease and stroke and stay "heart healthy" for yourself and your loved ones. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressures the number 1 killer of women and men in the United States. It is a leading cause of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities. CVD costs the United States over $300 billion each year, including the cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity.
You can control a number of risk factors for CVD, including:- Diet
- Physical activity
- Tobacco use
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- High blood cholesterol
- Diabetes
Try out these strategies for better heart health. You'll be surprised how many of them can become lifelong habits!
Eat a healthy diet. Choosing healthful meal and snack options can help you avoid CVD and its complications. Limiting sodium in your diet can lower your blood pressure. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables adults should have at least five servings each day. Eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol and high in fiber. (Of course, Veestro is an excellent source of the types of healthy foods described here!)
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for CVD. To determine whether your weight is in a healthy range, health care professionals often calculate a number called body mass index (BMI). Doctors sometimes also use waist and hip measurements to measure a person's body fat. If you know your weight and height, you can calculate your BMI at CDC's Assessing Your Weight Web site.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure. The Surgeon General recommends that adults should engage in moderate-intensity activity for at least 150 minutes per week. Remember to incorporate exercise into your day in different ways: take the stairs instead of the elevator, or rake the yard instead of using the leaf blower. Exercising with friends and family can be a great way to stay healthy and have fun. For more information, visit CDC's page on physical activity.
There's more. This article was excerpted from an article that appears on the Centers for Disease Control website.
Read more about 5 Heart-Healthy Foods.
