5 Things Your Heart Wants You To Know

Sure, you may hear a lot about heart health, but what does keeping your heart healthy actually mean? In short, it means eating right, getting in physical activity and knowing your risk for heart disease. Take steps each day to improve your heart health, and talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention.

Get the Facts About Heart Health

Here are five facts your heart would tell you about staying healthy... if it could.

1. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.

Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States, often fueled by risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, poor diet, smoking and lack of access to proper screenings. 

2. Heart disease is not just for older demographics.

Although aging increases our risk for heart disease, it's a myth that young individuals are not affected. When you have your annual exam, talk to your doctor about your risk for heart disease and how you can monitor it. Things like family history are important to consider when talking to your provider. 

3. Certain foods promote heart health.

You probably already know that eating more fruits and vegetables is good for your heart. But, did you know that salmon, nuts and dark chocolate can also help reduce your risk of heart disease? By incorporating a variety of healthy foods in your meals, you create a heart-healthy diet.

4. High blood pressure makes your heart work harder.

If plaque collects in your arteries, then your heart has to pump harder to move blood throughout your body. This extra effort causes high blood pressure and puts excess stress on your heart.

Help your heart by eating lower cholesterol foods, such as fruits, vegetables and multi-grain items. Foods lower in cholesterol can reduce your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease because they don’t create plaque in the arteries.

Know your numbers. Check your blood pressure regularly. Talk to your primary care doctor to get checked.

5. Quit smoking and your heart will thank you.

Of course, your lungs are grateful if you stop smoking, but your heart is grateful too. Smoking is a risk factor for heart disease and quitting will help reduce your risk.

Show your heart some love. Schedule a heart health screening or learn your risk today.