February is National Hear Health Month

The American Heart Association has a strategic plan to reduce cardiovascular disease in the United States. It outlines seven of the most important behaviors people can follow to protect their cardiovascular health.

Exercise:  Regular exercise improves nearly every aspect of your health.

Eat right:  Seek out foods such as nuts, whole grains, beans, fruits,  vegetables, seafood, yogurt, and healthy fats.

Blood Pressure:  Get your blood pressure checked, make sure your heart isn’t working harder than it should be.

Cholesterol:  Know your cholesterol level and keep it low.

Keep blood sugar levels down:  Exercise and diet help keep blood  sugar levels in check.

Maintain a healthy weight:  Fat cells release many substances that increase inflammation, promote insulin resistance, and contribute to  atherosclerosis.

Don’t smoke:  Smoking and the use of tobacco products isn’t just bad for your lungs, it is bad for your heart too.