February is American Heart Month
Your heart deserves attention every day. Regular visits with a healthcare professional can help you track your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Knowing your numbers gives you the information you need to make daily choices that support your health.
Daily habits also play a role in heart wellness. Small changes can make a big difference over time:
• Move more: Walking, gardening, or light exercise keeps your heart active.
• Eat heart-healthy food: Include vegetables, fruits, lean protein and whole grains. Limit salt, sugary drinks and highly processed foods.
• Avoid smoking: Quitting or reducing tobacco use protects your heart and blood vessels.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Staying in a healthy weight range reduces strain on the heart.
• Sleep well: Most adults benefit from 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to support overall health.
• Check your cholesterol: Regularly monitor cholesterol levels to keep your heart strong.
• Monitor blood sugar: Keeping blood sugar within a healthy range helps protect your heart.
• Track blood pressure: Healthy blood pressure lowers the risk of heart strain and long‑term complications.
Heart Month is a great time to explore new ways to care for your heart. Schedule a check-up, try a heart-healthy activity or learn CPR to be prepared for emergencies.
Taking steps today, even small ones, can help you stay active, enjoy life, and protect your heart for the future. Make heart health a priority this February and build habits that support a strong, healthy lifestyle.
