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WE’RE SURROUNDED BY
hearts this month. Along with
the paper and chocolate versions, there are the human ones:
the beating hearts of more than 300 million Americans.
Unfortunately, we’re also surrounded by heart disease.
In the U.S., it’s the leading cause of death for both men
and women. But it can be prevented and controlled. Even
in a short month’s time, you can do a lot to take better
care of your heart.
Week 1: Scrutinize labels.
Unhealthy fats and choles-
terol can clog arteries. Salt can raise blood pressure. Sugar
can pack on pounds. To avoid these risks for heart disease,
read nutrition labels when you’re grocery shopping. Look
for foods with unsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and
low percentages of sodium and sugar.
Also, choose plenty of foods that come without nutri-
tion labels: fresh fruits and vegetables. They are low in fat
and sodium, and they contain fiber, which can help pre-
vent high blood cholesterol.
Week 2: Get moving.
Like all muscles, your heart
needs exercise. This week—and every week—aim for at
least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity,
such as brisk walking. Share your heart-healthy habit with
a loved one—invite him or her to join you on a walk.
Week 3: Know your numbers.
If you don’t know
your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, make an
appointment this week with your doctor to have them
checked. Having high blood pressure or too much LDL
cholesterol (the bad kind)—or not enough HDL choles-
terol (the good kind)—in your blood can put you at risk
for heart disease.
Being overweight also makes heart disease more likely.
You probably know if you’re carrying too many pounds. If
you aren’t sure, it’s another thing to discuss with your doctor.
He or she can advise you on lifestyle changes or medi-
cines to help you achieve heart-healthy numbers in all
three areas.
Week 4: Vow to quit.
Smoking harms the heart as well
as the lungs. So if you light up, it’s important to ditch the
habit for good. Smoking also hurts your family and friends,
because exposure to secondhand smoke can trigger heart
problems in them. So quitting is an act of love—not only
for your heart but also for all the hearts that surround you.
February is a good
month to fall in
love—with your
heart. During
American Heart
Month, give this
hardworking muscle
some TLC for
lifelong health.
February is
love-your-heart
month
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