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February is American Heart Month which means it’s the perfect time to make some healthy changes if you missed out on New Year’s resolutions. A heart attack is the leading cause of death among Americans, yet so many people still neglect their heart health. If you want to improve your heart health and lower your risk of heart attack, make these lifestyle changes today!
Reduce Processed Foods
Processed foods are popular because they’re quick and easy to grab and almost always taste good. Unfortunately, all of those processed foods you’re eating are loaded with saturated fat, sodium, and other harmful ingredients. Reducing your processed food intake will naturally lower your calorie and sodium intake while whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables will increase your intake of good nutrients.
Get Active Everyday
Do you get 20-30 minutes of physical activity every day? If you’re like most Americans, probably not. Getting active helps your health throughout your body, including the heart. Look for an activity you enjoy so that doing it daily won’t feel like a chore. Join a dance class, go for a swim, take the dog for a walk, or whatever type of activity it is that brings you joy! You might even notice some unintentional weight loss after implanting exercise into your daily routine.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is bad for every aspect of your health, including your heart. Quitting smoking might not seem easy, but it’s more achievable than you realize. With more alternatives and tools available to help you quit than ever before, there’s no reason not to! Talk to your doctor to learn about tools to quit smoking that might even be covered by your insurance.
Reduce Your Stress
Managing stress is something we all struggle with, but it’s important to prioritize it to protect your heart health. Work to reduce stress one day at a time by setting aside designated time to do exactly that – destress. 20 or 30 minutes a day doing something that you enjoy is all it takes to help decompress and prepare for the stresses of the next day. Read, journal, listen to music, or find another outlet for your day-to-day stress.
Walk-In Urgent Care in Marlborough, MA
If you have questions about your heart health or need care for an injury or illness, your local walk-in clinic or urgent care is the place to go! You’ll receive the care you need, when you need it, at a price you can afford. After all, stressing about medical bills is the last thing you need! For questions, please call 508-658-0764.
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