Every day, more than 2,200 Americans die of heart disease (Center for Disease Control). This statistic is staggering, and it emphasizes the need for education about the importance of heart health. The good news is that small lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 80 percent.

Since February is American Heart Month, we have compiled a list of tips to help you improve your heart health and reduce your risk for heart disease. These simple changes can have a huge impact on your overall health.

1. Stay active. Be sure to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day.
2. Watch your cholesterol levels. You can manage your cholesterol by exercising and eating a variety of nutritious foods including fruits, vegetables and whole grain breads.
3. Eat healthy. The American Heart Association recommends eating fruits and vegetables, eating fish twice a week and cutting back on sugars and saturated fats.
4. Manage your blood pressure. This can be done by avoiding alcohol, exercising regularly, managing stress and reducing sodium in your diet.
5. Reduce your blood sugar. You can accomplish this by moderating your consumption of soda, candy, sugary deserts and other foods that contain simple sugars

Hopefully these tips help you to start thinking about ways to improve your heart health! If you want more information, be sure to check out the American Heart Association’s website or Go Red for Women.