Appropriately enough, February is American Heart Month. While we focus on sending heart shaped Valentine’s to those we admire, we should also focus on keeping our heart in shape. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, but it is preventable and treatable. Hopefully the following information and tips will give you the motivation to keep you and your loved one’s heart healthy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 715,000 Americans experience a heart attack every year. They also estimate about 600,000 people die from heart disease in the US each year. Although this is a startling number, which is not alleviated by the growing obesity rate in the country, it is preventable and completely in your control!

Heart disease can refer to several types of heart conditions. The most common is coronary heart disease. This is when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This nasty build up can lead to a heart attack, angina, heart failure and arrhythmias. Seniors who are less active should particularly watch out of signs of heart disease. Diet and exercise are important components in keeping that heart pumping well. To keep your family and loved ones in top shape, work on following the subsequent tips together.

• Eat healthy. If you’re not getting at least 5 servings everyday of fruits and vegetables, you should rethink your diet. It can be hard to completely re-vamp what you eat, but taking small steps like making sure you are getting more of those greens and limiting the salt in your diet can get you started in the right direction.  Not only will watching the nutritional value of your foods help prevent high cholesterol and lower your blood pressure, but it will also help you maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases your risk for heart disease.

Looking for some particularly heart healthy foods? Check out salmon, avocados, pistachios, peanuts, cantaloupe, and olive oil next time you’re in the market.

• Exercise. Physical activity can also help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and promote healthy weight. Paired with healthy eating, you’ve got a strong fight against heart disease.

• Put down that cigarette! Obviously we know smoking is bad for your health. Most of us think of cancer and lung disease right away, but did you know it increases your risk for heart disease?

• Limit alcohol use. Drinking too much can increase your blood pressure. Men should have no more than two drinks per day, and women should have no more than one. A glass of red wine, which is rich in antioxidants, can be good for your heart though so have a glass every now and then (provided it doesn’t interfere with medication).

This Valentine’s day show your loved one you really care and help them stay heart healthy. Maybe start with an afternoon walk or prepare them a healthy and delicious dinner. As leaders in home care in Rhode Island, MAS Home Care wants to see all of our patients at their best. We hope that you will protect your heart this February, and every day.