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02/19/2021

Love Your Heart

Love your Heart to Better Health

February is American Heart Month. Unfortunately, Oklahoma ranks among the highest for deaths related to heart disease each year. What can you do to keep your heart healthy and strong?

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY, WELL-BALANCED DIET

Make your plate colorful! Include fruits and vegetables in your daily meals. It is essential to limit the number of “trans fats” you digest – which means less fast food and more salads, lean meats, fish, and beans.

BE ACTIVE

Generally, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. You may say, how can I do that? When at work, get up periodically and walk around the office.

Instead of parking close to the store, park further out. And, if possible, take the stairs instead of the elevator.

QUIT USING TOBACCO

Quitting is the best thing you can do for your heart and overall health. Smokers have a higher risk of developing many chronic diseases. Quitting is never easy, but there are resources available.

1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or www.smokefree.gov or locally email Kimbra Whaley at kimbra.whaley@drhhealth.org.

MONITOR YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE AND CHOLESTEROL REGULARLY

High blood pressure can be deadly. It’s sometimes called “the silent killer” because it has no symptoms. Additionally, a high level of cholesterol (over 200) has no signs. But both of these, left untreated, could lead to heart attack, heart disease, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis (fatty buildup in the arteries that causes them to harden), and stroke.

GET MORE SLEEP

A good night’s rest helps to restore your body and decreases stress. Try to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep every night.

Establishing a nighttime routine will help.

If you have any questions regarding your heart health, contact your primary care provider. Remember to take the time and show your heart some love.

Nathan Murray, PA-C
Marlow Family Care

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