Did you know that 1/3 of adults over the age of 20 have high blood pressure? That is more than 76,400,000 Americans.
Did you know that 1/3 of those killed by heart disease in 2008 were less than 65 years old?
The total direct and indirect cost (medical costs and lost productivitydue to mortality) of heart disease is estimated at $300 billion each year.
Heart disease is no longer a disease that affects the elderly, it is showing up in Americans at younger and younger ages. Focus on keeping your heart healthy TODAY to prevent cardiovascular disease in the future.
Follow the "simple 7" to get heart healthy and stay that way!
1. Lose weight. Extra body weight (especially fat around the middle) is a major risk factor for heart disease.
2. Get active. All it takes is 30 minutes a day of brisk walking to reap heart healthy benefits!
3. Eat better. Limit sodium, saturated fats (fat from animal products), trans fats, cholesterol, and added sugar. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
4. Keep blood sugar under control. If you have diabetes, manage your blood sugar with the help of your doctor and a diet low in concentrated sweets.
5. Control blood pressure. High blood pressure is the single most significant risk factor for heart disease. When your blood pressure stays within healthy ranges, you reduce the strain on your heart, arteries, and kidneys which keeps you healthier longer. Limit sodium intake to less than 1500 mg per day to help manage blood pressure.
6. Manage cholesterol. When you control your cholesterol, you are giving your arteries their best chance to remain clear of blockages. Blockages in the arteries can lead to heart attack and stroke.
7. Stop smoking. The health benefits of putting down the cigarettes are too many to count! Smoking damages your entire circulatory system, and increases your risk for coronary heart disease, hardened arteries, aneurysm and blood clots.
If you need help getting started with a heart healthy lifestyle, contact a Registered Dietitian for expert tips and suggestions.
Heart is the most important part of the body, we must always take good care of it to avoid health issues. Make use of healthy foods and avoid oily food in order to keep your heart fit and healthy.
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