HOW TO KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY

February 14, 2018

February is heart month, a chance for us all to take stock of our cardiovascular health and make positive changes. What can you do for a healthy heart? Runnymede Healthcare Centre’s nursing department has provided some heart friendly tips:

Butt out

When it comes to keeping your heart healthy, no amount of smoking is safe. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, smokers are three times more likely to die of heart disease. Talk with your health care provider about how you can stop smoking.

Keep active

Regular physical activity is important because it helps you lose weight, stay healthier, and sleep better. It also slows the physical decline of aging and reduces stress. Keep your heart healthy by getting at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. If you have questions about what type of physical activity is best for you, ask your doctor.

Eat for your heart

A heart healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, high fiber, low salt and low-fat dairy products. These foods can help lower cholesterol and improve blood flow to your heart.

Schedule regular check-ups

Visit your health care provider regularly for screening tests, so you'll know if your blood pressure or cholesterol level is too high.