This February, messages of love and romance surround us once again. But maybe the perfect Valentines “gift” is something money can’t buy.
Beyond the roses and chocolates, YOU can give the gift of heart health — whether it’s to yourself or someone you love and care about. February marks the awareness of American Heart Month, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women of most ethnicities in the United States.
Although this statistic can seem overwhelming, it’s not meant to scare you. Instead, think of this as the perfect time to educate yourself about the health of this important organ and its connection to weight. You know that your weight matters for your health, and heart health is a big part of that equation.
Weight and the Heart: How Are They Connected?
Weight and overall health are important contributors to cardiovascular function. Excess weight is associated with a number of cardio risk factors including, but not limited to:
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Elevated blood glucose levels/diabetes
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Inflammation
Some of these risk factors might seem common, and that’s because millions of Americans are affected by these conditions. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t dangerous and don’t have to be taken seriously. The above risk factors can put individuals at risk for much bigger problems such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, coronary heart disease, stroke and others.
What Can I Do to Protect Myself?
Fortunately, many of the behaviors involved in healthy weight management can also be used to protect this vital organ. Think about the areas of your life you can modify to improve your overall health, including:
- Consuming a healthy diet rich with lean, whole foods
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Managing stress both during and before it occurs
- Ceasing unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and excessive drinking
- Visiting your healthcare provider for regular health exams
Want to learn more about the connection between weight and your heart?
CLICK HERE for more information from Your Weight Matters Magazine.
