GO RED: 2017 Edition

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Heart disease is the nation’s number one killer of both men and women (1). Every 80 seconds, one woman is killed by heart disease and stroke. (1) That’s 1 in 3 deaths among women each year. These statistics can be shocking, but building awareness is one of the best ways to fight this horrible disease. Did you know that 80% of these deaths can be prevented with education and action? (1) The month of February plays a heavy role in awareness with several events taking place throughout the month including Go Red For Women and National Wear Red Day. This year, National Wear Red Day is Friday February 3^rd. By wearing red, you help support educational programs to increase women’s awareness and critical research to discover scientific knowledge about cardiovascular health.

Remember it like this: (1)

Get Your Numbers: Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose.

Own Your Lifestyle: Stop smoking, lose weight, be physically active and eat healthy.

Raise Your Voice: Advocate for more women-related research and education.

Educate Your Family: Make healthy food choices for you and your family. Teach your kids the importance of staying active.

Donate: Show your support with a donation of time or money.

It’s not just about remembering, it’s about actively living the lifestyle. As mentioned, you need to own your lifestyle and educate your family- you set the example.

How can you live your healthiest life?

Get basic. Physical activity is anything that makes you move your body and burn calories.

A well rounded exercise program includes resistance training, cardiovascular exercise and flexibility training. Recommendations given by the American Heart Association include:

Adults get 150 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, even short 10 minute activity sessions can be added up over the week to reach this goal.
Strength training at least twice per week.
For people who would benefit from lowering their blood pressure or cholesterol, 40 minutes of aerobic exercise of moderate to vigorous intensity three to four times a week to lower the risk for heart attack and stroke. (2)

What are the benefits of participating in an exercise program?

Prevent and manage high blood pressure
Reduces coronary heart disease in women by 30-40 percent
Reduces risk of stroke by 20 percent in moderately active people and by 27 percent in highly active ones
Prevent weight gain or maintain weight
Increased strength of bones, muscles and connective tissues
Lower risk of injury
Increased muscle mass, which makes it easier for you to burn calories
Increase energy and stamina

We urge you to embrace a healthy lifestyle so that you can reduce your risk of heart disease. Start with small goals and see how these changes really add up. Ready to make these changes? Contact us to get started and remember to wear red on February 3^rd.

CVD Risk Assess CTA