Best Practices For Keeping Your Heart Strong
During February, American Heart Month promotes the importance of keeping your heart healthy and strong. While heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., there are many ways to reduce your risk.
According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, those with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes are at an increased risk of developing heart issues. Heart disease is also more common in women over age 55, men over age 45, or for those with a family history of heart disease.
Fortunately, maintaining a healthy lifestyle greatly decreases your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Ways to care for your heart include:
- Consistently staying active to avoid a sedentary lifestyle
- Learning to healthily manage stress levels during difficult times
- Avoiding smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol use
- Eating a well-balanced diet, low in sodium and saturated fats
- Keeping tabs on your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers
- Visiting your doctor to discuss your risk for heart disease
Reduce Your Risk of Cancer With A Healthy Lifestyle
According to the American Association for Cancer Research, more than 40% of cancer cases are affected by preventable causes such as smoking, excessive sun exposure, obesity, and physical inactivity.
While factors outside of our control affect our likelihood of developing cancer (such as age and family history), taking steps to lead a healthy lifestyle can drastically reduce the risk. February is National Cancer Prevention Month, making it the perfect time to brush up on healthy habits that lower your risk for certain cancers and diseases:
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use. This lifestyle choice is one of the most effective ways to prevent cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight and an active lifestyle. Routine exercise benefits your overall health and promotes disease prevention.
- Strive for a nutritious, balanced diet and minimize processed foods when possible.
- Keep your skin safe from harmful sunrays by wearing sunscreen.
Catching cancer in its earliest stage is important for treatment. You can do this by staying up-to-date on wellness screenings and visiting your primary care physician at least once a year.
Watch this video from Mayo Clinic for additional tips on preventing cancer with a healthy lifestyle.