For more than 10 years, the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women® movement has fought to save women’s lives from heart disease. While the progress has been significant, there’s a long way to go. Did you know…
- Heart disease is still the #1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year?
- Heart disease kills more women than men at an average rate of one death per minute?
- Heart disease kills more women than all kinds of cancer combined?
The New Year is the perfect time to reflect on your habits and perhaps make some changes and form new, healthier habits. Why not start with your heart health? The following tips will get you on the road to being heart healthy this year.
- Drink more water. This is key to staying healthy. Water is a readily available and cheap drink, and if you drink the right amount, you won’t have room left for sugary sodas. You should be consuming about eight glasses of water each day.
- Go green. Keep your kitchen stocked with more fruits and vegetables and less sugary snacks. If fruits and veggies are the only thing to reach for, you’re more likely to increase your consumption.
- Cut out processed foods. This year, go for fresh ingredients and homemade meals. In addition to the chemical preservatives in processed foods, they are also full of added salt. Higher salt intake puts you at risk for high blood pressure. Cut out the salt where you can.
- Eat more fiber. This is very easy to add to your diet. Reach for more whole grains, which are filled with fiber and help you better digest your food. Whole grains also make you feel fuller longer, which helps you maintain your weight.
Starting new habits can be tough although we’ve compiled some of our favorite resources to help support you:
- Check out the American Heart Association’s heart score tool to find out how you’re doing in terms of heart health
- Prepare something healthy (and delicious) for your heart from our Healthy Meal Ideas Pinterest board
- Wear Red Day is the first Friday in February. Find inspiration for the occasion from our Wear Red Pinterest board
- American Heart Association
- www.goredforwomen.org
5 Minutes a day can make a difference in your heart health. Get started with these tips:
