February is American Heart Month

Not only is the month of February filled with spending time with the ones we love, but it's about reminding those ones we love to stay healthy, in particular - heart healthy. 

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the US - that's one in three deaths related to heart attack or stroke.  Most of us know someone who has suffered from a related illness -- my dad had a heart attack when I was in high school and it was one of the most difficult things I've ever had to go through.  He was not a healthy eater, not the most active dad in our neighborhood, and he was a smoker. I think that "Dads", in particular, are often the people we hear of related to issues with heart health.  How can we keep them, and all of the people we love, healthy and in our lives for the long run?

The Center for Disease Control recommends the ABCS:

1. Asprin for people at risk
2. Blood pressure control
3. Cholesterol management
4. Smoking cessation

Preventative health education is the key while we remind ourselves and others to make healthy choices.  By taking small steps like eating right, keeping active, and scheduling regular check-ups with our doctors, we can do our part to stay healthy.  Know your family history and ask questions to the people around you.

Have a heart and save a life of someone you love this month :)