Improving heart health involves making conscious choices to reduce risk factors and adopt heart-healthy habits.
Here are some ways to promote heart health during Heart Month and beyond:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Limit saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.
- Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming can help improve cardiovascular fitness.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, seek support to quit smoking. Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation or yoga to reduce the impact of stress on your heart.
- Monitor Blood Pressure: Check your blood pressure regularly and work with your healthcare provider to manage it within a healthy range.
- Control Cholesterol: Maintain healthy cholesterol levels by following a heart-healthy diet and, if necessary, taking prescribed medications.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of balanced eating and regular physical activity.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to heart problems.
- Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support heart health.
Remember small changes can make a big difference. Connecting with others makes those efforts more successful.
Hudson Valley Community College’s Health Services at the Wellness Center, located in Siek Campus Center, Suite 270, is here to support you in meeting your health goals. We offer advocacy and care to promote being well and staying well. Feel free to contact our office at (518) 629-7468 or stop in and see us!