February is American Heart Month

Since 1963, February has been recognized by the American Heart Association as American Heart Month.  It was designated as such because cardiovascular diseases are the number one killer of people in the United States.  Coronary heart disease, which often appears as a heart attack, is the most common heart disease.

American Heart Month is observed in order to increase increase awareness of cardiovascular diseases and raise funds for research. Throughout the month, healthy habits are encouraged and emphasized as a means of prevention.

According to the CDC, being heart healthy means choosing healthy foods. Some of their recommendations include selecting low-fat dairy products, drinking alcohol in moderation, cutting back on sugar, eating less than 300 mg of cholesterol per day, choosing foods with very little or no salt and eating lean poultry and meats without the skin.

Additionally, it is also recommended that individuals exercise regularly, control their weight, avoid tobacco and maintain healthy blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

The importance of knowing the symptoms of a heart attack are also stressed by the CDC. Usually heart attacks begin slowly, with mild discomfort. However, some are intense and sudden. Here are some of the specific signs that may signal that a heart attack is occurring:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Arm, stomach, neck, back or jaw discomfort
• Nausea, lightheadedness or cold sweat

Women account for nearly 50% of heart disease deaths in the United States.  Several  lifestyle choices and medical conditions put women at a greater risk for heart disease, including cigarette smoking, poor diet, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and physical inactivity.

Exercise, eating right and knowing more about heart diseases are great places to start.  Take some time this month to think about your own heart, and what you can do to ensure it stays healthy and strong for a lifetime.