By now you’ve probably heard that February is Heart Health Month. While the month is coming to an end, efforts to spread heart health awareness continue. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. But it’s also preventable. It’s important to know your numbers, risk factors and preventive measures to maintain a healthy heart.
We talk about heart health a lot — from how to have a workplace wellness program to 7 challenges to celebrate american heart month — it’s a topic we all need to pay attention to.
Need a reminder to focus on your heart? We put together some of our favorite healthy heart reads from this year’s American Heart Month — check them out:
Why Exercise Is Good for the Heart (New York Times)
The connection between a healthy heart and routine exercise may seem like a no-brainer. But a new study in mice found that even a single workout can benefit the heart. Results show just 30 minutes on a treadmill affects gene activity in cardiac cells that could potentially slow the aging of the animals’ hearts.
Surprisingly Heart-Healthy Foods (Fox News)
Looking to shake up your diet? Fox News shares unexpected heart-healthy foods that go beyond the standard fruits and veggies. Hint: This list may or may not include chocolate.
Why Cardiologists are Prescribing Mindfulness for Heart Health (Forbes)
We know that one of the many benefits of mindfulness is that it reduces stress and anxiety. We also know that stress plays a role in heart attacks and coronary artery disease. It’s no wonder cardiologists are turning to mindfulness and meditation for heart health. Take a look at our favorite tools, tricks and tips for mindfulness to learn more.
Heart Health Month: a moment to examine your risks (Seattle Times)
The CDC reports that heart disease causes one in every four deaths in the United States. The Seattle Times encourages readers to know their risk factors and take the preventive measures to reduce them. Take a moment to look at your family history. Genetics, age and lifestyle choices like smoking all contribute to risk level. The more you know about your risk level, the better decisions you can make to take preventive measures and change habits.
2 Ways to Boost Heart Health That Have Nothing to Do with Diet or Exercise (Shape)
Already a nutrition and fitness junkie? These tips are for you. Boost your heart in a matter of minutes by only using your posture and attitude. Exercise physiologist Alice Ann Dailey says, “having the correct spinal alignment allows your circulation to flow and your heart to pump properly.” Did you just sit up a little taller? Us too.
How much do you know about your own heart health? Check out American Heart Association’s My Life Check and find out your heart score.