February is heart health month. To keep your heart healthy, follow these key tips:
- Regular screenings: Monitor your health through regular check-ups to identify potential issues early on.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Focus on a balanced diet with nutritious foods and limit calorie intake.
- Stay hydrated: Drink enough fluids throughout the day to maintain proper hydration.
- Engage in regular physical activity: Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic health problems.
- Control blood pressure and cholesterol levels: Monitor and manage these levels through lifestyle changes or medications if necessary.
- Quit smoking: Seek professional support to quit smoking for improved heart health.
- Protect from excessive sun exposure: Use sunscreen, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and limit exposure during peak hours.
- Drink alcohol in moderation: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to heart disease.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Focus on improving mental health: Reduce stress and promote a healthy mindset through practices like meditation or relaxation techniques.
If you are 20 years and older, be sure to make an appointment with you primary care provider to get your heart screened.
References Used
1. MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [updated 2020 Jun 24]. Congenital Heart Defects; [created 1999 Jun 21]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/congenitalheartdefects.html
2. MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [updated 2020 Jun 24]. Healthy Living; [created 2002 Mar 25]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/healthyliving.html
3. MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [updated 2020 Jun 24]. Healthy Aging; [created 2010 Nov 23]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/healthyaging.html