Not only is this the month of love, but February is heart health month. In honor of both of those things, let’s talk about some ways to improve your heart health starting today!
Walking
It doesn’t take much to improve your heart health, small changes can go a long way. If you’ve known me for any length of time, you’ll know that I’m a big fan of walking. It’s one of the most simple things you can do and walking just 30 minutes per day makes a huge impact on your health. Walking helps reduce inflammation (which is hard on your heart as it’s linked closely to all stages of atherosclerosis), helps to improve blood flow, circulation, and oxygen throughout your body!
Sleep
Beginning better sleep habits also helps to improve heart health. Studies have shown that getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night (yes, that might mean an earlier bedtime for some) is optimal for prime heart health. Good ways to begin this is to start going to sleep earlier. Dim the artificial lighting and allow your melatonin to produce as it’s made to do. Plug your phone in a different room to charge and get off all screens at least 1 hour before bed. This will help your sleep be BETTER.
I admit grudgingly, I’m not the best at turning screens off either. I go in phases, but notice a HUGE difference when I shut them down and dim the lights. Also, no more caffeinated beverages after 5 pm. In fact, ditch those caffeine drinks altogether as the caffeine really wreaks havoc on the balance of hormones and can keep you awake. Trust me…small changes will go a long way.
Dairy
Cutting out dairy products also improves heart health. Yes, dairy seems to be a common “mainstay” for most, but when you are eating a plant-based or vegan lifestyle, there’s truly no need to consume it. Dairy is loaded with saturated fat which your body doesn’t process well, and it’s a root cause to inflammation, which puts a lot of stress on your heart.
Stress
Managing stress helps to reduce high blood pressure. It might not be as easy as it sounds, but beginning each morning with a gratitude journal can be a good start. You will find that when your mindset changes to being grateful and more positive, your stress level will begin to decrease even if your circumstances have not. Maybe, in order to reduce your stress, you need to learn to say “no” to things that aren’t adding value to your life. Also, deep breathing along with prayer and meditation help immensely.
Alcohol & Tobacco
Ditching alcohol and tobacco of any kind is a MUST for improving heart health. Both put extra strain on your heart and are totally unnecessary for a full life. I know, I can hear you already – “What about the resveratrol in red wine?” Well, if you want this awesome antioxidant…eat red grapes! 🙂
Freedom
If you are feeling stuck, take my 84-day challenge and turn your health around. It’s time for you to experience the solution to best health. Achieve your best health in 2019!
