Happy Heart Health Month!
Published - Feb 01, 2020
February is National Heart Health Month
and not only is it a month to celebrate love, but it is the perfect time to learn more about your heart health. Heart disease and the conditions that lead to it can happen at any age. It has become more and more common among younger people, as high rates of obesity and high blood pressure put them at risk for the disease. Half of all Americans have at least one of the top three risk factors for heart disease – high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or they smoke. Heart Disease is also the leading cause of death for men and women in the US.
One of the most important things that you can do to keep your heart healthy is exercise! Staying physically active keeps the heart and blood vessels healthy. Only one in five adults meet the physical activity guidelines of getting 150 minutes a week, of moderate-intense activity. Completing endurance or aerobic activities that increase your breathing and heart rate will improve your heart health significantly. For example, walking, jogging, dancing, swimming, or biking for at least 30 minutes everyday is a great start to improving your heart health.
Eating healthy foods that are low in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar can help keep your heart healthy as well. Filling your plate with fruits and vegetables are great options that give you the nutrients you need, while keeping your blood pressure low.
If you are wanting to make a change in the new year but need help getting started, make an appointment with us!
Julie Mahler, IRG’s Registered Dietician offers expert, science-based advice to help clients meet their nutrition and health goals. Julie will be on KOMO News Radio 1000am/97.7fm on IRG’s Health Talk segment Sunday, February 9th at 11 am. She will be sharing more information on her services and how proper nutrition can benefit everyone. Be sure to look out for Julie’s free Anti-Inflammatory Medical Education nights on the IRG website.
IRG Performance is the region’s largest team of Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists. This program can take you or your athlete to a new level of performance, and confidence, in exercise and strength, while meeting personal fitness and performance goals along the way.
Resources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-best-heart-healthy-workouts-for-your-60s-70s-and-80s
https://www.verywellfit.com/cardio-exercise-guidelines-for-seniors-1230952