Writing by Angela T. Moore

Every February, we celebrate Heart Month to raise awareness about heart health and cardiovascular disease. This initiative encourages us to prioritize our heart health through healthy habits, learning about prevention, and supporting those affected by heart conditions. However, heart health should be a year-round focus.

Key Facts from the CDC:

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S.

Every 33 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from cardiovascular disease.

Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a heart attack.

Preventing Heart Disease: By tracking key health numbers and making healthy lifestyle choices, we can prevent heart disease and improve overall well-being.

Important Heart Health Numbers:

• Blood Pressure:
  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg.
  • Elevated: 120-129 (systolic) and less than 80 (diastolic).
  • Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139 (systolic) and 80-89 (diastolic).
  • Hypertension Stage 2: 140/90 mm Hg or higher.
  • Hypertensive Crisis: Exceeds 180/120 mm Hg, requiring medical attention.
• Cholesterol:
  •  LDL (Bad Cholesterol): Builds up in artery walls.
  • HDL (Good Cholesterol): Carries excess cholesterol to the liver.
  • Triglycerides: Should be below 150 mg/dL.
• Blood Sugar:
  • Healthy fasting glucose: Lower than 100 mg/dL.
    
    

Life’s Essential 8™ by the American Heart Association:

1. Eat Better
2. Be More Active
3. Quit Tobacco
4. Get Healthy Sleep
5. Manage Weight
6. Control Cholesterol
7. Manage Blood Sugar
8. Manage Blood Pressure
   
   

As a NASM Master Trainer and licensed counselor, I emphasize the importance of knowing these numbers and adopting healthy daily habits to improve both physical and mental health.

Daily Healthy Habits:

• Eat Well: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy proteins, nuts, and seeds.
• Be Active: Engage in structured workouts or short bouts of activity throughout the day.
• Get Enough Sleep: Ensure restful sleep for sufficient energy.
  
  

Quitting tobacco is crucial. Though challenging, it’s essential for your heart and overall health.

Now that you know your key numbers and heart-healthy habits, you can manage your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol effectively.

Take it one day at a time, one step at a time. Every effort you make towards a healthier lifestyle enhances your chances of living a longer, happier life. Here’s to a healthier heart and a healthier you!