The first month of 2014 went flying by with cold
temperatures for most of the country. Now it’s time to focus our attention on
love. Valentine’s Day the day of love when cards and candy are given with warm
affection in hopes that a special person will accept these gifts and respond
with tenderness. There’s just something about love that we just can’t get
enough of.
Love from the “heart” the point we are making today! Did you know
that many of the more than one million Americans who will die from
heart-related disease this year will have died of a heart attack while
experiencing a sudden rise in excitement and tension. Having a check up with
your doctor is also a special gift. One you can give yourself. Although you
lack the power to change some risk factors — such as family history, sex or age
— there are some key heart disease prevention steps you can take.
1. Don't smoke or use tobacco - Smoking or using tobacco is
one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease.
Chemicals in tobacco can damage your heart and blood vessels, leading to
narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Atherosclerosis can ultimately
lead to a heart attack.
2. Exercise for 30 minutes on most days of the week - Try
getting at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderately intense physical activity most
days of the week. However, even shorter amounts of exercise offer heart
benefits, so if you can't meet those guidelines, don't give up. You can even
break up your workout time into 10-minute sessions.
