My Healthy Heart Blogs
Six Ways to Celebrate Heart Month
02/01/08
Events
By Eliz Greene
February is National Heart Month. Heart attack-survivor Eliz Greene offers some suggestions to improve your health and celebrate.
Get Your Numbers
Make an appointment with the doctor to evaluate your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
- Known as the silent killer, high blood pressure has no symptoms. Uncontrolled blood pressure is the single most important risk factor for stroke, yet nearly one-third of those living with high blood pressure have no idea they have it.
- For many, controlling their cholesterol level is the first step to maintaining a healthy heart. The National Cholesterol Education Program suggests everyone 20 years old or older should have their cholesterol tested.
- Early detection of prediabetes is essential to reduce the damage to your body and your risk for cardiovascular disease. Prediabetes may cause permanent damage to your heart and it can double your risk of heart attack.
Get Informed
Use your numbers to evaluate your risk for heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association two online tools a Risk Assessment and the women specific Go Red Heart CheckUp.
Get Relaxed
Stress is a major risk factor in cardiovascular disease. Make an appointment for a massage, an evening out, or set aside time for an activity you enjoy. Plan something indulgent for yourself and celebrate your good health.
Get Moving
Active people are less likely to have a heart attack or stroke. Try something new this month. Check out a class at the local recreation department, school, or fitness center. Make a date to take a walk once a week with a friend or your Valentine. Move a little more and do something wonderful for your heart.
Get Connected
People with good friends are healthier, according to a study conducted by UCLA. Nurture your friendships this month. Make time for a phone call, e-mail, lunch, or other connection and celebrate the people who make your life better.
Get Involved
Take action and make a difference by joining the American Heart Association’s You’re the Cure Network. The network e-mails alerts about national, state, and local legislation and public health issues based on your interests.
For more Healthy Lifestyle Tips for Busy People visit Eliz’s blog at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com.
Eliz Greene survived a heart attack at age thirty-five while seven-months pregnant with twins. She is a heart health educator, freelance writer, and speaker on a mission to help busy people lead healthier lives.
