Every February, the nation celebrates American Heart Month, a time to focus on keeping our hearts strong and healthy. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S. People over 50 are especially at risk, but the good news is that there are simple steps you can take to protect your heart.
Why heart health matters
Your heart is the engine that keeps your body running. It pumps blood, carrying oxygen and nutrients to every part of your body. Over time, factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and lack of exercise can weaken your heart. This can lead to heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes.
The good news? Many of these problems are preventable. By making small changes to your daily habits, you can lower your risk and live a longer, healthier life.
Know the warning signs
It is important to know the signs of heart problems. Call 911 if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms:
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or unusually tired
Simple steps to a healthy heart
Here are some easy ways to keep your heart in top shape:
• Eat heart-healthy foods
A balanced diet is key. Focus on foods that are good for your heart like:
• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice
• Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and beans
• Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and olive oil
Try to limit salt, sugar, and processed foods. Too much of these can raise your blood pressure and cholesterol.
Get moving
Staying active helps your heart stay strong. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include:
• Walking
• Dancing
• Gardening
• Swimming
• Manage stress
Stress can raise your blood pressure and make your heart work harder. Take time to relax with activities you enjoy, like reading, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones.
Quit smoking
If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Smoking damages your blood vessels and makes your heart work harder. Talk to your doctor about resources to help you quit.
See your doctor regularly
Regular check-ups can catch problems early. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. They can also give you advice tailored to your health needs.
Make it a heart healthy month
This February, take a moment to think about your heart health. It is never too late to start taking care of your heart. Small changes can make a big difference. During the month of February, commit to making one heart-healthy change. Your heart — and your loved ones — will thank you.
For information, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org.
For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, visit gethealthycarsoncity.org/, or call 775-887-2190. You can visit the CCHHS office at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City or follow CCHHS on Facebook at facebook.com/cchhs, or Instagram @GetHealthCarsonCity.