February is Heart Month

The American Heart Association has declared February as Heart Month. Take steps now to keep your heart healthy.

High cholesterol, high blood pressure and being overweight or obese are major risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

You should be tested regularly to know if you have high blood cholesterol or high blood pressure. That’s because elevated cholesterol and blood pressure have no warning signs.

Free screenings for cholesterol and blood pressure as well as many other tests are available during the Scheurer Hospital’s Annual Health Fair on May 11, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Call (989) 453-5252 for more information.

There are some steps you can take now to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. Do at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most or all days of the week and limit the amount of alcohol you drink.

Eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet low in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol that includes lots of fruits and vegetables and fat-free dairy products can significantly reduce your cholesterol. You should eat no more than 6 ounces per day of cooked meat, seafood or poultry.

Choose lean cuts of meat, trim all visible fat and throw away the fat that cooks out of the meat. Use a minimal amount of fats, oils, and salt. Limit the amount of salty foods you eat. Take your medicines as prescribed.

Lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

For more information, talk to your healthcare professional or contact the American Heart Association at: (800) 242- 8721 or see their Web site at www.americanheart.org.