It’s that time of year again, February is American Heart Month. Cardiovascular disease, includes high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease, is the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States. One in four people die of this every year. Cardiovascular disease can lead to disability and prevent you from doing what you love most, such as spending time with loved ones. The good news is that heart disease can be preventable by the healthy choices you make. February is the month to spread awareness about heart disease and what everyone can do to prevent themselves from developing it.

If you are at risk for Cardiovascular disease, here’s how you can minimize your risk factors: Obesity is a major risk factor for developing CVD, have a good diet and start exercising. The healthier you are, the healthier you will feel. If you have high blood pressure and and cholesterol talk to your doctor about what you can do to bring it down. If you have diabetes, be conscious about seeing your doctor regularly.

There are also a number of ways you can help prevent yourself from developing Cardiovascular disease. Make sure you go to the doctor once a year, getting a full body check-up even once a year can decrease the chances of developing CVD. Eat and drink healthy. You can treat yourself sometimes, but you want to make sure that you are also giving your body the nutritious foods it needs. Exercising regularly will help you maintain a healthy weight and feel great. Do not smoke. Limit the amount of alcohol that you consume into your body.

Tell a friend or a family member! Get as many people as you can to join the new healthy you! If you have a group of people living a healthy life with you, the easier it will be for everyone to maintain this lifestyle by encouraging each other.

This month, take the time to spread awareness about heart disease. With the education and the encouragement, together we can help prevent ourselves and others from developing this disease!

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