Protecting your heart is one of the best things you can do for yourself. By taking steps to live a healthier lifestyle, you’ll help prevent heart disease and also may be able to quell symptoms that could eventually lead to a heart attack. During American Heart Month in February, we’re taking a closer look at the steps you can take to live a healthier life.
Watch What You Eat for Heart Health
When it comes to prevent heart disease or other heart issues, watching what you eat is an important component. Stay away from saturated and trans fats that can be found in processed foods. Instead, look to foods containing good fats such as vegetable oils, nuts, avocados, and olives. Eating fish is also a great way to incorporate good fats into your diet.
Exercise for a Healthier Heart
Another important thing you can do for your heart is exercise. Even if you’re just exercising for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, you can increase your heart’s health. Make sure to exert yourself enough to work up a light sweat when you do work out, since that will help increase your heart rate. You should also be conscious of how much you sit per day. If you sit for most of the day at your job, then make sure to make an effort to get up and walk around during your lunch break or at other times during the day.
Quit Smoking to Help Your Heart
Smoking causes about one in every five deaths in the United States. Not only that, but it harms a person’s heart when they smoke. More specifically, the chemicals in tobacco smoke harm your blood cells, which can then damage the function of your heart and the structure and function of your blood vessels. By quitting smoking, you’ll not only improve your overall health; you’ll also improve your heart health.
Manage Your Heart Health
If you have a history of heart disease in your family, make sure to consult with your doctor. They can best assess what steps you can take toward a healthier heart.
In addition, if you’re looking for ways to help in a crisis when it comes to heart health, 1st Aid Supplies stocks a full selection of AEDs and other devices to help. During the month of February during American Heart Month, receive a 10% discount on CPR/AED-related items.
