February is Heart Awareness Month: 5 Simple Ways to Take Care of Your Heart
- Kiran Reddy
- Jan 30
- 2 min read
Your heart works 24/7 to keep you going, but how often do you think about its health? February is Heart Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to focus on small but impactful changes to keep your heart strong. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many cases are preventable with healthy habits.
Here are five simple ways to take care of your heart starting today.
1. Eat Heart-Healthy Foods
A balanced diet can significantly lower your risk of heart disease.
Try to:
Add more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your meals
Choose lean proteins like fish, chicken, and plant-based options
Cut back on processed foods, sugary drinks, and excess sodium
Include heart-healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil
2. Stay Active
Exercise keeps your heart strong by improving circulation, reducing blood pressure, and boosting overall cardiovascular function. You don’t need to run marathons—just 30 minutes of moderate activity five times a week can make a big difference.
Try: Brisk walking, cycling, and yoga or stretching exercises.
3. Manage Stress
Stress increases blood pressure and can lead to unhealthy habits like emotional eating or smoking. Reduce stress by:
Practicing mindfulness or meditation
Listening to music or engaging in a relaxing hobby
Prioritizing good sleep habits
4. Monitor Your Blood Pressure & Cholesterol
High blood pressure and cholesterol levels are major risk factors for heart disease. Regular screenings help you stay informed and take preventive action.
🔹 Ideal blood pressure: Less than 120/80 mmHg
🔹 Ideal LDL (bad) cholesterol: Below 100 mg/dL
5. Schedule Regular Check-Ups
Even if you feel fine, an annual heart check-up can detect issues before they become serious. Your doctor can assess risk factors and guide you on the best steps for prevention.
Your heart health is in your hands! This Heart Awareness Month, take small but meaningful steps to improve your heart’s well-being. Book an appointment with Dr. Reddy in Hanford or Visalia today to stay proactive about your heart health.
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