It’s February, and that means it’s Heart Health Month! Naval Hospital Bremerton is highlighting this important topic with displays and presentations that focus on keeping our hearts healthy, no matter our age.
“Start taking steps now to improve your heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease,” says Patricia Skinner, the Health Promotion and Wellness coordinator. Many think heart issues only affect older people, but that’s not true. Nearly six in ten preventable heart-related deaths occur in people under 65, according to the CDC.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S, causing a death every 33 seconds. That’s a staggering reminder for everyone. Skinner emphasizes that healthy heart habits should start young to protect your future.
Several lifestyle choices can impact heart health. These include smoking, excessive drinking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight. By avoiding these habits, we can reduce stress on our hearts and improve overall health.
Skinner is leading the charge for education on heart health for all ages. It’s important to choose a nutritious diet, stay active, and know the warning signs of heart attacks and strokes.
“Take care of your heart, no matter how old you are,” she stresses. Each age group faces different risks, so creating good health habits early is essential. This means engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and monitoring health numbers like cholesterol and blood pressure throughout life.
Here’s a quick guide for heart health at various ages:
- In your 20s: Find a doctor and get regular check-ups. Avoid tobacco and secondhand smoke because they seriously damage your heart.
- In your 30s: Manage stress and pay attention to your family’s health history. Make healthy living a family goal.
- In your 40s: Keep an eye on your weight and find exercises you enjoy. Get your blood sugar checked regularly.
- In your 50s: Learn the signs of a heart attack, which can differ between men and women. Stick to your treatment plans for diet and medication.
- In your 60s: Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol. Keep exercising and eat healthy, nutrient-rich foods.
Healthy eating plays a big role in heart health. Machinist’s Mate, Nuclear Power 2nd Class Grace McCracken, created a colorful food display showing how different foods can boost heart health.
Red foods like strawberries and apples are heart-friendly.
Orange foods such as carrots improve eyesight.
Yellow foods like yellow peppers help with healing.
Brown fruits and veggies provide energy.
Blue foods, including blueberries, contain nutrients that can lower blood pressure.
Green foods like broccoli and kiwis help fight off germs.
While February is dedicated to heart health, it’s a year-round commitment. “It’s something to think about all the time,” Skinner notes. The goal is to spread awareness about heart disease and help people make lasting lifestyle changes. Celebrating progress, like weight loss or improved cholesterol levels, can motivate individuals to stick with healthy habits.
