February - American Heart Month
Authored by Kyle Golden (February 1, 2024)
February is American Heart Health month. The heart is one of the most vital organs in the human body, and maintaining its health is crucial to overall wellbeing. Many lifestyle factors can influence heart health, including exercise, stress management, smoking habits, and DIET!
Hey, we both know this, right? But, are we actually doing something to give our hearts that extra love both now and for the future? One of the best ways to show some love to your heart is by eating a diet that's low in saturated fat and sodium, and high in fiber, antioxidants, and other heart-friendly nutrients. Guess what?! A plant-powered diet, which is all about eating lots of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts, can do wonders for your heart health. By eating a variety of these foods, you can help lower your blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and maintain a healthy weight - all super important for keeping your heart happy and healthy.
And guys, listen up! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States, killing one in every four male adults. Nearly half of all American men have some form of cardiovascular disease, and every year about 805,000 Americans have a heart attack, of these, 605,000 are a first heart attack and 200,000 happen to people who have already had a heart attack. These figures are particularly true for men who live in the south. For more stats and information check out the CDC’s website.
While a plant-based diet can be beneficial, it's important to remember that balance and variety are key. Including lean plant proteins and healthy fats, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables, can help ensure you're getting all the nutrients your body needs to support heart health. Daily exercise and regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are also essential components of maintaining a healthy heart.
So, how about showing your heart some extra love this month? Enjoy your veggies, go easy on the stress, say goodbye to those pesky bad habits, spend time with family and friends, and don't forget to see your doctor for regular check-ups. Your heart will thank you!
Are you veg curious? Below are some more links on how a plant-powered diet can be good for you!
Recommended Reading
If you liked this article American Heart Month, you might also like:
(Consider this article as general information on health, fitness, and lifestyle. Always consult your physician or health care provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.)
Hi, I’m Kyle Golden,
Founder and Lifestyle Coach at Vireo Fitness. For over 16 years I have helped hundreds of clients just like you find their path to better health. Get in touch today and find out how I can help you embrace a better lifestyle and realize your full potential!