Celebrate Heart Month

Did you know that the number one cause of death in the United States is cardiovascular disease and NOT cancer or diabetes??

In fact, 1 in 4 Americans (1 in 3 women!) will die from heart disease in some form, whether that be through a stroke, heart attack or even high blood pressure.

Heart health is extremely important and unfortunately, it has taken the back burner to other disease. The good news is that a healthy heart is very much related to your lifestyle choices, especially your diet, so you are in control.

And since February is National Heart Month, I believe this is the best time to reeducate on cardiovascular health.

While each month that comes along celebrates a special holiday, such as February and Valentine’s Day, we tend to think in terms of food(sugar) and beautiful flowers to celebrate it. Doesn't make a whole lot of sense when we take a look back at the origins of this holiday. It was first celebrated in February 1964 when President Lyndon B. Johnson dedicated the month to raise awareness about cardiovascular health after learning of the alarming statistics.

Other than a brief period (1918-1920) when pneumonia and influenza topped the charts, ‘diseases of the heart’ has been the top cause of death in the United States since 1910.

85.6 million Americans are currently living with cardiovascular diseases in some form.

Approximately 29 percent of adults in the United States have high blood pressure.That is around 75 million people!

And while these facts are a bit sobering, to say the least, the good news is that cardiovascular disease can be prevented with lifestyle choices and sound preventive measures.

Your Diet Is So Important To Your Heart Health

One of the best ways to eat ‘heart healthy’ is to follow a whole food, plant-based diet. The research is in and many people can attest to a plant based diet saving them from near fatal heart disease. All you have to do is examine people from different cultures around the world who enjoy a primarily plant-based lifestyle and you will see that cardiovascular disease in those populations is virtually non-existent.

So, pack your diet filled with fruits and berries, a variety of beans, green vegetables like spinach or kale, as well as whole grains and seeds, and you will go a long way towards protecting your heart.

Remember to have your cholesterol levels checked which are tied to your risk for heart disease. Know the difference between “good” and “bad” cholesterol.

Diet is important but so is regular physical activity. Being physically active 3-5 times a week is also important. Begin by just walking for 20 minutes and gradually build on to your time.

Last but not least, relax. We live in a hectic world that keeps us running 24/7! Our rest is much needed as well. Opt for 7 to 8 hours a nite for sleep. A midday meditation session can also improve heart health.

Beautiful red roses can make any heart smile and that is a definite heart health plus along with a few pieces of antioxidant filled dark chocolate. Happy, healthy Valentine’s Day to you all!