Matters of the Heart

FEBRUARY IS HEART HEALTH MONTH

You may not know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are major risk factors. 

A change in lifestyle is the first step to our overall health. Lifestyle changes work better when we have a positive reason for making them. One example is quitting smoking. Did you know that if you smoke a pack a day, you'll spend around $20,000 over the next 10-years? Can you think of other ways to spend that money?

A healthy diet is another way to fight against heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends a diet of whole foods; vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Poultry, fish, low-fat dairy products and nuts are a good source of protein. Sugar and red meat should be limited or eliminated.

Move more. Keep it simple. Aim for a minimum of 30-minutes a day, 3-5 days a week of moderate exercise. Any activity that gets you moving is good. If you're doing nothing, do something but start slow and increase your activity over time. If you're already active try setting a goal to do more. 

I love walking. Sound Steps, a program offered through the Parks & Recreations Department, is a great way to participate in an organized walking program. There are groups all over Seattle to make it convenient.  Check your area for a similar program. Walking with a group is more fun and makes it easier for me to keep my commitment to exercise. If walking is not your thing find an activity you like, find a buddy to do it with, and be consistent.

Your Health is your Wealth

Jacqueline