Embracing a healthier life is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves and those we love. –The American Heart Association
As I stated in a recent blog entry, February is “Heart Month” for the American Heart Association (AHA). Think about how many of us have been touched by the problems associated with heart disease. Perhaps at some point you have suffered a heart attack. If not you, then no doubt a friend or loved one has had heart trouble. This blog is dedicated to encouraging people to build strategies into their lives that facilitate happiness, health, and a brighter outlook. All of the strategies I have discussed in previous blogs, especially those dedicated to diet and exercise, go hand in hand with the philosophies of the AHA.
Let me share with you some strategies from the AHA for lowering the risk of heart disease: (1)
- Get active. As I have said many times, regular exercise is crucial to maintaining good health and brighter outlook. The AHA also states that exercise increases HDL “good” cholesterol in the blood. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get in shape, for there are all sorts of free and fun ways to exercise such as walking, bike riding, jogging, and calisthenics.
- Control cholesterol. Be sure to have routine screenings and avoid foods rich in saturated fat, trans fat, and dietary cholesterol.
- Eat better. Get rid of junk food, fast food, and sweets. Try eating more green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains.
- Manage blood pressure. According to the AHA, there is no cure for high blood pressure, but it can be managed through lifestyle changes involving eating a heart-healthy diet, which may include reducing salt; enjoying regular physical activity; maintaining a healthy weight; managing stress; limiting alcohol; avoiding tobacco smoke.
- Lose weight. If you are overweight and serious about shedding some pounds, talk with your doctor and work out a program for weight loss. You will feel better emotionally and mentally, and the health benefits are nothing short of remarkable.
- Reduce blood sugar. According to the AHA, a check up with your doctor is crucial. He or she can then make recommendations for lowering and managing blood sugar levels.
- Stop smoking. If I have said this once in this blog I have said it a dozen times. If you are smoking you are slowly killing yourself. The health risks associated with smoking are too great to be ignored. Give up smoking and you will add years to your life as well as increase your overall quality of life as you age.
The time to start making healthy life choices is right now. You only have one heart. Be sure to take good care of it.
Have a great day!
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