14 Ways to Take Charge of Your Heart Health
When the American Heart Association nominated our president, Martha Mosier, as a 2023 Woman of Impact, our staff and agents immediately stepped up to join her team and accept the Go Red for Women challenge.
Our team, Team REal Heart, consists of 25 members who are dedicated to raising awareness and funds to fight heart disease. Martha shared an inspiring message to kick off the campaign, promising to dedicate time and resources to spreading the word about the challenges women face when it comes to heart health and how to prevent heart disease in both women and men.
Learn more about Martha and Team REal Heart’s mission.
This eight-week campaign kicked off February 3, 2023 and we are excited to share valuable information with our staff, agents, and clients. To celebrate “Take Charge of Your Health” week and Valentine’s Day, we are turning the conversation to prevention of heart disease by sharing 14 ways to take charge of your heart health.
1. Move your body daily
We all have busy schedules, but even 15 minutes of activity each day can benefit your health. Go for a walk, swim some laps, or try out a fun work out class.
2. Prioritize sleep
Getting the right amount of sleep each night is important for so many reasons, heart health is just one of them! Establish a bedtime and morning routine so you can always get a good night of rest.
3. Spend time outside
Fresh air and sunshine? Yes, please! Luckily, here in Southern California, we are fortunate to have plenty of sunny days, so getting outside daily is a fantastic treat.
4. Drink water all day
Glass of water before your daily coffee? Check. Glass of water when you sit down for lunch? Done. Sipping on electrolytes when the 4:00 p.m. crash happens? Back on track! Aim to have a full glass of water every time you have a meal.
5. Don’t sit for long periods of time
Yes, the “time to stand” notifications do have a purpose! Get on your feet, take a lap around the house or office, then get back to work. Or, take a walk around the block to check #1 and #3 off your list for the day!
6. Practice good dental hygiene
Did you know there is a correlation between your dental health and heart disease? Researchers suspect that bacteria present in gum disease can travel throughout the body, triggering inflammation in the heart’s vessels and infection in heart valves. Brush your teeth twice a day and be sure to schedule regular appointments with your hygienist.
7. Enjoy alcohol in moderation
Right now, mocktails are trending, and that is a good sign for heart disease! Consider swapping out your favorite alcoholic beverage for a tasty non-alcoholic cocktail to enjoy the ritual, without the risk.
8. Manage stress
According to research, stress can increase inflammation in your body, which in turn is linked to factors that can harm your heart. To mitigate stress, consider seeking professional help or turning to heart-healthy activities, such as exercise or meditation.
9. Stop smoking/avoid second-hand smoke
We all know the benefits of leading a smoke-free lifestyle, and heart health is one of them. Do what you can to avoid or reduce contact with smoke.
10. Protect Your Mental Health
Establish work-life-social boundaries, take time for yourself when needed, and take up an activity or hobby that brings you joy.
11. Complete a stress test
Whether you have history of heart disease or not, scheduling a stress test is a great way to determine your heart’s health. During a stress test, electrodes are connected to your body while you complete some sort of physical test, such as walking on a treadmill, for a specific duration of time. This “stresses” your heart, and your physician can monitor how blood moves through your arteries to determine how well your heart is working.
12. Schedule regular check-ups
Talk to your doctor to determine what is right for your health.
13. Monitor and manage known conditions
It’s important to “know your numbers” when it comes to your blood pressure, by frequently measuring it. If you have known conditions, taking prescribed medication, following a prescribed diet, and maintaining a exercise regimen are just a few steps to take to help keep your heart healthy!
14. Stay informed!
Continue following Martha Mosier on Instagram and Facebook as she shares information from the American Heart Association between now and April 6, 2023.
If you would like to make a donation on behalf of Team REal Heart, visit Martha Mosier’s Woman of Impact profile.
This information is not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your doctor before making any significant changes.