February isn’t only about celebrating Valentine’s Day, it’s also National heart month.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with about 610,000 people (or one in every four deaths) dying from it each year.
Taking care of your heart can lessen your risk of heart disease complications, such as heart attack and stroke. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be as difficult a task as some may think, and can be as easy as adding some extra greens to your meal.
For an added boost in heart health, here are three things you can take part in starting today:
- Take a 10-minute walk a few times a day
- Why: Getting more movement throughout the day is one of the best ways to improve cardiovascular health, especially if you’re looking to improve cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Tips: Set a recurring reminder on your phone or calendar. Do your best to stop what you’re doing and get walking!
- Eat one extra fruit or vegetable a day
- Why: Fruits and vegetables are packed with heart-healthy nutrients. These nutrients keep your heart functioning optimally and also add great flavor, it’s a win-win!
- Tips: Start by making a list of fruits and vegetables you enjoy and then choose one from the list each day. If you’re feeling extra motivated, choose one fruit and one vegetable. The more you eat these heart-healthy foods, the more your body will crave them.
- Breathe deeply and mindfully
- Why: Taking slow, deep breaths can lower stress levels and blood pressure, which can improve heart health.
- Tips: Start by practicing deep breathing before you get out of bed in the morning. Take 5-7 deep breaths, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. If you’d like guided help, try these meditation videos.
There’s no better time than the month of love to improve your heart health! What will you do today to show your heart some love? It’s the little things that count.