The American Heart Association has dubbed February as American Heart Month. There are several things that you can do to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle:
A nutritiousĀ diet plays a vital role in heart health. Fruits, veggies, fibrous whole grain foods and fish are best for your heart. Be conscious of food labels in orderĀ to limit your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium and added sugar. Additionally, eat only as many calories as you need and drink in moderation.
The American Heart Association suggests moderate activity for 2 1/2 hours a week to keep your heart healthy. Your exercise regiment can vary based on a number of factors.Ā Talk to your doctor and set a target heart rate to exercise safely. Choose an activity that you enjoy.
Implement therapeutic lifestyle changes.
While diet, exercise and weight loss are all self-explanatory and fundamental pillars of a heart-healthy lifestyle, there are certainly other therapeutic lifestyle changes to consider. For example, quitting cigarettes and reducing stress are affirmative actions that aid in overall heart health.
The MSU community will recognize heart health in a variety of ways. Consider buying your Valentine’s Day sweets fromĀ MSU Bakers.Ā PatronsĀ can donate money to the American Heart Association with theĀ purchaseĀ of baked goods.
To learn more about American Heart Month, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org.