Heart Health Matters

February isn’t just for heart-shaped boxes of chocolate; it’s also American Heart Health Month. Show yourself some love by taking good care of your heart.

Do you know the signs?

Warning signs of heart attack often include:

• chest discomfort/pressure
• lightheadedness, or shortness of breath
• nausea, or breaking out in a cold sweat
• jaw, neck, back, or arm pain
• extreme tiredness

It’s important to note that heart attack warning signs often show up differently in men and women. If you aren’t sure, always err on the side of caution and call 911.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. That’s scary — but thankfully, you CAN reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease with simple healthy living strategies.

The American Heart Association suggests these “Simple 7” steps:

1. Stop smoking.
2. Eat a healthy diet.
3. Get – or stay – active.
4. Maintain a healthy weight.
5. Manage blood pressure.
6. Control cholesterol.
7. Reduce blood sugar.

Further ways to improve your heart health: reduce stress, get enough quality sleep, and see your doctor regularly to manage any potential cardiovascular risk factors.

And hey, back to that Valentine’s candy: go ahead and have a little chocolate! Studies indicate that foods derived from the cocoa bean are heart healthy — in particular dark chocolate, which has a higher cocoa content. Specifically, people who eat more chocolate have lower rates of heart attacks, heart failure, and even death from heart disease. {Happy dance!}

It’s NEVER too late to make healthy changes.

Let me know how I can help.