Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. February is
Heart Health Awareness Month focuses on raising awareness of
heart disease and stroke prevention. Many factors, such as lifestyle, health conditions, age, and family history, contribute to this issue. Health conditions that put people at
potential risk are high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. Also, lifestyle factors like
eating unhealthy foods, physical inactivity, smoking, stress, and lack of sleep can
increase a person’s risk.
What can we do to prevent it?
There are different ways we can protect the health of our heart and reduce the risk of
heart disease. Some examples include incorporating healthier lifestyle habits and attending the doctor for regular physical check-ups. Examples of lifestyle habits to improve are eating healthy, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing sugar, decreasing stress, quitting smoking, and getting adequate sleep.
Eating healthy is one way to reduce the risk of heart disease, and WIC can help with
that! WIC offers foods in the benefits packages, such as whole grains (whole grain
bread, oatmeal, whole wheat tortilla, brown rice, or pasta), low-fat dairy options, fruits,
and vegetables. Those who consume three or more servings of whole-grain foods daily are 30 times less likely to develop heart disease compared to those who do not include whole-grain options. WIC’s low-fat dairy options are recommended for those with high
cholesterol or heart disease. In addition to other lifestyle changes, consuming these
foods in our regular diet can help keep our hearts healthy!
The American Heart Association organizes a heart walk every year throughout the
United States to celebrate survivors and create awareness about heart disease. If you
want a family fun activity to incorporate more physical activity, this can be a
great way to have fun with family and friends!
Check out their website to find an event near you!
2024 Wall Street Run amp; Heart Walk – Heart Walk – American Heart Association