Take Care of Your Heart
According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S.
About 1 in 4 deaths is from heart disease
1 person dies every 36 seconds from cardiovascular disease
These are sobering statistics. That’s why we felt it would be helpful to remind readers of what you can do to keep your heart healthy. Here are five things you can do right now to lower your risk of getting heart disease.
1. KNOW YOUR RISK FACTORS.
Half of all Americans have at least one of three key risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. These are risk factors you can control, unlike your age and family history, which can’t be changed.
2. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.
Use “Me Time” to take care of yourself. That includes doing things like:
Reduce stressors in your life
Get quality ZZZs every night
Step away from your phone, laptop, and TV regularly
Be mindful – learn breathing techniques; practice meditation or yoga
3. MANAGE A HEALTHY WEIGHT.
Staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight and doesn’t require you to take a fitness class every day. Walking, riding a bike, or running through one
of Lincoln’s beautiful parks is sure to inspire you. Basic lifting of free weights or stretching with resistance bands can all be done at home. There are plenty of apps to provide a “guided” exercise plan.
4. CHOOSE HEALTHY OPTIONS.
It’s about maintaining a healthy balance of food options and how often you eat them. Portion size, choosing more fresh fruits and vegetables and less processed foods, and managing the amount of salt, sugar, and fats can make a big difference in how your body feels, inside and out. Don’t be afraid to try new foods – you may be pleasantly surprised!
5. AVOID SMOKING AND TOBACCO.
Cigarette smoking and use of tobacco products can increase your risk for heart disease. Quitting now can lower your risk.
Talk to your healthcare provider and make a plan to change up some things in your life that will be good for your heart!