H E A LT H Y H A B I T S T O P R O T E C T Y O U R H E A RT

C R E A T E D B Y J O H N PA U L R U N Y O N

• Developing healthy habits is essential for leading healthy lives, especially when it comes to preventing heart disease.

• The heart is the most important organ in our bodies, without out we could not survive.

• The heart pumps blood through blood vessels of the circulatory system, which then provides the body with oxygen and nutrients that we need to live.

• But unfortunately, according to The American Heart Association, heart disease in the number 1 cause of all deaths in the United States and the rest of the world.

• As a global society we must take appropriate measure to ensure that we are doing everything in our power to keep our hearts healthy so that we can live longer, high-quality lives.

• Here are a few habits you should develop to protect your heart…

• First and foremost, quit smoking.

• Smoking is bad for our health in a multitude of ways, and you probably already know that (even if you are a smoker).

• But it’s time to take kick this unhealthy habit once and for all - do it for your heart.

• Quitting smoking greatly reduces your risk of developing heart disease, among an endless amount of other diseases and cancer.

• If you are currently a smoker, make sure you capitalize on the resources our society has to help you quit.

• From behavioral therapy, to nicotine replacements and a combination of medical and behavioral treatments out there - you can quit.

• Remember, when there’s a will, there’s a way.

• Another healthy habit you should form is exercising consistently on a weekly basis.

• According to an article published by GoRedforWomen.org, “Regular physical activity has many benefits such as helping you quit smoking, lose weight, reduce stress, lower blood pressure and increase HDL cholesterol,” (Bass, Healthy Habits to Prevent Heart Disease).

• There are so many benefits from exercise that should make you committed to work out about 5 times each week.

• Getting an adequate amount of cardio is especially good for your heart - it’s even in its name. Cardio for Cardio - at least 30 minutes per day.

• Another great way to improve your heart health is by reducing and managing stress.

• Yes, this day and age it seems like work is the focal point of our lives.

• But remember to breathe and recognize how much of an impact stress has on your life.

• If you are feeling overwhelmed or completely stressed about a situation at work (or in your personal life) you should take a step back, give yourself a mental health day, and focus on your breathing.

• Meditating, participating in soothing activities like yoga or getting a massage, or even reading a captivating book are all great ways to reduce stress so that your heart can be as healthy as possible.

• Lastly, eating healthy is imperative for your heart’s health. Eat more fruit, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and nuts - you will instantly feel a surge of energy after about a week of clean eating, maybe even less.

• There’s no reason for you to put things in your body that don’t help it to function properly and feel good.

• Always think of food as fuel - eating well helps both your physical and mental states operate at their highest level.

• Of course, it’s okay to indulge in sweets or a bagel every once in awhile - but keep it to a minimum.

• Your heart will thank you for it later.

• In conclusion, the habits we develop now will play a major role in our health as we grow older.

• Making a large effort to quit smoking, eat healthy, exercise, and reduce stress is vital to our heart health, and to our health for the rest of our lives.