Wearing Red

How can you protect yourself?  Here are some tips for a healthy heart!

• Exercise regularly.  Aim to get 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
• Eat a variety of foods and watch your portion sizes.  Limit saturated fats.
• Replace unhealthy fats with monosaturated fats like canola, olive, and peanut oils.
• Drink water!
• Maintain a healthy weight.  Do not crash diet.
• Manage your stress levels.  Schedule some "me" time to destress.
• Get a good night's sleep.
• Practice meditation to calm your mind.
• Watch your blood pressure.  There are often so symptoms associated with a high BP so it is referred to as a "silent killer".  Optimal BP readings is 120/80 mm Hg.
• Don't smoke.
• Red wine and other alcoholic beverages may reduce the risk for heart disease but if you don't drink, don't start.  Limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day.
• Have healthy and supportive relationships.
• Be active in the community.  Volunteer.

I would love to see this circle the blogosphere today.  We are never too young (or old) to start caring for our bodies.  The younger you are when you make changes, the greater your likelihood for long-term health and wellness.

How are you heart healthy?  Did any of this surprise you?

**I have a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a degree in Physiology from the College of Medicine, University of Arizona.  Cardio physiology was one of my core (and favorite) classes.  However, always check with a health professional before changing your exercise routine or diet.  Schedule your yearly appointment with your health provider today ;)