February is decorated with a cascade of hearts. From Valentine's Day to American Heart Health Month, the focus is on hearts of all shapes and sizes. What's the best kind of heart? A healthy one!
Be physically active. Talk with your doctor about the type of activities that would be best for you. If possible, aim to get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Moving some every day is best because the bulk of the minutes need not be done all at once.
If you smoke, quit. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death. Smoking adds to the damage to artery walls. It's never too late to get some benefits from quitting smoking. Even in later life, quitting can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer over time.
Follow a heart-healthy diet. Choose foods low in saturated fats, added sugars, and salt. As we age, we become more sensitive to salt, which can cause swelling in the legs and feet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber, like those made from whole grains.
Keep a healthy weight. Balancing the calories you eat and drink with the calories burned by being physically active helps to maintain a healthy weight.
Keep your diabetes, high blood pressure, and/or high cholesterol under control. Follow your doctor's advice to manage these conditions, and take medications as directed.