Five lifestyle changes to make your heart healthy

February is Heart Month — a time for awareness and education. And while heart disease is still the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. and Canada, there's good news: it's also largely preventable through proper diet, regular exercise, and a healthy weight.

That's why we launched Stronger Together — to encourage women to take care of themselves and then encourage others to do so as well. Together, we can help a million women prevent heart disease. Here are five basic heart-healthy lifestyle changes you can make today — and don't forget to share them with the women you love.

Healthy meals — Lifestyle change No. 1

Eating healthy will not only protect your heart, but it will also impact your overall health. Limit foods high in fat, cholesterol and salt; but, be sure to get plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat diary products. Most of us don't get enough Omega 3 fats (found in fish), but research has shown Omega 3 to have a positive impact on your heart health. Ask a member of our staff how you can order your Curves Omega 3 supplement today.

Exercise — Lifestyle change No. 2

It's recommended that we get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days. Wow, that's just one more reason to love your Curves workout!

Air (Tobacco Free) — Lifestyle change No. 3

No amount of tobacco is a safe amount. To quit smoking today is absolutely, without a doubt, unequivocally one of the best decisions you can ever make for your health.

Regulate your weight — Lifestyle No. 4

Even a little extra weight can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, which increases your chance for heart disease. A BMI (body mass index) less than 25 and a waist measurement less than 35 inches are ideal, but remember that if you can reduce your weight even by just 10% that will make a difference.

Take the Tests — Life- style change No. 5

Get regular health screenings for your cholesterol and blood pressure. If you know your numbers, you know what action you need to take.

Now, don't you get a little flutter knowing that you have so much control over your heart health? Go get one of those cheesy cards and tape it on your bathroom mirror. Be your own Valentine this month and every month. Your heart, after all, does belong to you.

source: pottstownmercury