Healthy Living Programs
American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. In fact, one person dies every 36 seconds from cardiovascular disease. 

There are lifestyle adjustments you can make to prevent heart disease. Adopt these tips for a healthy heart.

  • Check your cholesterol and blood pressure and work with your healthcare provider to get it within a healthy range
  • Choose heart-healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains and protein-rich foods
  • Manage stress by prioritizing your mental health and happiness 
  • Exercise regularly
    • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend:
      • Adults should move more and sit less throughout the day. Some physical activity is better than none. 
      • For substantial health benefits, adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) to 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. Preferably, aerobic activity should be spread throughout the week.
      • Adults should also do muscle-strengthening activities of moderate or greater intensity and that involve all major muscle groups on two or more days a week, as these activities provide additional health benefits.
    • Try these stretches and exercises to get your body moving throughout the day:
  • Quit smoking: Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and lung cancer. It is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, causing more than 480,000 deaths per year. An additional 41,000 deaths occur from secondhand smoke exposure each year. For more information and cessation tips, click here.

Meet with a Registered Dietitian
Center for Health & Fitness Registered Dietitian Charlotte Hargrave can assist with personalized meal plans, weight loss consultations, chronic disease management, meal planning and more to maximize physical and emotional well-being. You can book an appointment with Charolette by calling 310-374-3426, option 3 or by filling out an information form here.

Nutrition and Exercise is one of Beach Cities Health District’s health priorities

Resources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Heart Disease
NIH, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Heart-Healthy Living
American Heart Association