Did You Know ...

February is National Heart Month

Heart disease is the number one cause of death and a major cause of disability in both men and women. The average first heart attack for a man is 66 years old. Heart disease is the third leading cause of death in women age 25-44 and the second leading cause in women aged 45-64. About every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event. About every minute someone will die from one. In 2010, an estimated 785,000 American had a new coronary attack and about 470,000 had a recurrent attack

Diseases and conditions that put you at risk include arrhythmias, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, secondhand smoke.

Signs and symptoms

• Chest discomfort such as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. It can last more than a few minutes or be reoccurring
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Breaking out in cold swear, nausea, or lightheadedness

Suggested Changes in Diet

• Choose lean meats and poultry without skin
• Select fat free, %1 fat, and low-fat dairy products
• Reduce trans-fat in your diet by cutting back foods that contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils
• Aim to eat less than 300 mg of cholesterol each day
• Eat less foods and beverages with added sugars
• Eat foods with lower salt/sodium
• Drink alcohol in moderation, less than two drinks per day
• Stay in control of your portions