5 Things Your Heart Wants You to Know

Sure, you may hear a lot about heart health, but what does keeping your heart healthy really mean? In short, it means eating right, getting physical activity and knowing your risks for heart disease. This is especially important during the pandemic and includes being mindful of your increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Take precautions, work on your heart health, and talk to your doctor about your risk for heart disease 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.

Most people fear cancer or diabetes. These are serious illnesses, but it’s heart disease that kills more people year after year. Good news though —you can take action to reduce your risk of heart disease.

2. Heart disease is not just for old people.

Although aging increases our risk for heart disease, it’s a myth that young people are not impacted by this condition. It’s important to keep in mind that adults of any age with heart disease are at an increased risk for severe illness when contracting COVID-19, according to the CDC. Be sure to take the proper precautions to protect your heart and health.

When you have your annual exam, talk to your doctor about your risk for heart disease and how you can work with him or her to monitor it.

3. Certain foods promote heart health.

You probably already know that eating more fruits and vegetables is good for your heart health. But, did you know that salmon, nuts and dark chocolate can also help reduce your risk of heart disease? By incorporating a variety of heart healthy foods in your meals, you create a heart-healthy diet. Following a heart-healthy diet will also boost your immune system and support your ability to fight of viruses, such as the coronavirus.

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 stress on your heart.

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

If you are concerned about coming in for care, ask your care team if they offer video visits at this time, or learn about how we are protecting the health and safety of our patients and caregivers.

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