February is full of Black History and Valentines but did you know that it’s also
American Heart Month? Heart disease is the #1 killer of women in the United States.
Read below to learn more about heart disease and tips on how to help keep your heart healthy this month, and every month of the year!
Approximately 1.2 million persons in the United States will have a myocardial infarction (i.e., heart attack) in 2007.
Risk factors include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, obesity, and diabetes.
Prevention reduces the risk for heart disease and its effects.
Quit smoking! Studies show that women who smoke have increased risk for a heart attack, stroke and cancer.
Exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
Make sure that your diet is low in bad fats like saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol (total, HDL, LDL, triglycerides), and blood glucose levels.
