Your heart is the one of the most important organs in your body. It pumps blood throughout your body supplying oxygen and nutrients and removing carbon dioxide and other wastes. It is the size of a large fist and weighs about 10-12oz in men and 8-10oz in women. Your is a very hard working organ, pumping 6 quarts of blood throughout your body and beating 100,000 times per day (in adults). A newborn baby’s heart beats a little faster at about 70-190 beats a minute.

With all these important jobs the heart has, it is very important to keep your heart strong and healthy. Here are some heart healthy tips.

• Nutrition – This is one of the key weapons against heart disease. Following a healthy eating regimen and sticking to healthy eating habits is important. It is essential to not think of eating healthy as a diet but a change in lifestyle. Here are some heart healthy recipes approved by the American association to get started. Now you may be asking, how do I know what to buy at the grocery store? The American Heart Association has a special “check mark” logo assigned to hearth healthy foods. To learn more about this program click here.
• Physical Activity – You do not need to feel overwhelmed by thinking you need to run 5 miles everyday. Try starting out with just walking around the neighborhoods block. Hold yourself accountable by making a plan to go walking with a friend and create a “walking date” at least once or twice a week. For some help on finding your fitness level, click here.
• Stress Management – Stress can a multitude of health problems including heart disease, diabetes, depression and more. It can weaken your immune system and make susceptible to get sick more often as well. It is very important to manage your stress level and find an “outlet”, such as exercise or relaxation techniques. Studies show meditation is a good ay to start and end your day. It will help relieve stress and leave you feeling at peace. Try using the four “A’s” avoid, alter, accept or adapt. For more information click here.
• Quite Smoking – This can be easier said than done. However once you make that choice to stop smoking it will be one of the best decisions you can make for yourself and your health. Smoking can be a major factor in your health overall well being. If you know you want to quit but just need some help or support, check out these resources.
• Know the Signs – Know the signs of heart trouble or a heart attack. Knowing the warning signs of a heart can yours or a loved ones life. They can include shortness of breath or pain/discomfort in the upper body. Click here to learn more.