February is Heart Health Month: Give your Heart the TLC it Deserves

Submitted by UW Neighborhood Olympia Clinic

Your heart is the hardest working organ in your body. It pumps more than five liters of blood through your body every minute and never gets more than a moment of rest. In recognition of February as Heart Health month, all of us at your UW Neighborhood Olympia Clinic wanted to share some lifestyle changes you can make to give your heart the TLC it deserves.

Stop Smoking.

Chemicals in tobacco smoke harm your blood cells and damage the structure and function of your heart and blood vessels. A smoker has twice the risk of a heart attack compared to a non-smoker. If you have been unable to quit smoking on your own, speak with your healthcare provider about finding a smoking cessation support program to help you quit successfully.

Eat a Healthy Diet.

A healthy diet can stop or even reverse heart disease. To improve your diet, stay away from foods that are high in salt, sugar, cholesterol, saturated fat and trans fat. Instead, eat fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, fish, poultry and nuts.

Exercise.

Healthy diet and exercise are some of the best ways to ensure your heart is healthy. Photo courtesy: UW Medicine.

Your heart is a muscle, and exercises that get your heart pumping strengthen that muscle. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program, and begin it gradually, especially if you haven’t been active for some time.

Watch your Blood Pressure.

High blood pressure is known as “the silent killer” because it goes without symptoms in most people while causing damage to blood vessels that serve the heart. The best way to know if your blood pressure is in a healthy or unhealthy range is to get it checked by your healthcare provider. If you do have high blood pressure, your healthcare provider will give you the tools to manage it.

Watch your Weight.

Even modest weight loss can yield heart and vascular benefits. Talk with your healthcare provider about establishing a diet and exercise plan that you will be able to maintain for the long run.

Monitor your Cholesterol.

High cholesterol is a major contributor to heart disease. Everyone age 20 and older should have their cholesterol checked at least once every five years. If you do have high cholesterol, your healthcare provider will help you to manage it.

Reduce your stress by enjoying activities with those you love. Photo credit: Diane Waiste.

Reduce stress.

Stress can increase your risk of developing heart disease. Reduce your stress in whatever ways work best for you—from exercising to spending time with those you love to making quiet time for yourself every day.

Did you know that a simple checkup can help to prevent heart disease? At UW Neighborhood Olympia Clinic, we can identify any heart health risk factors you may have, and educate you on how best to manage them. Call 360-507-9100 or go to uwmedicine.org/inolympia to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider at UW Neighborhood Olympia Clinic this February. Your heart will thank you.

Walk in for Relief Today

Subscribe

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

About the Author

Dr David Warwick DC

Your Local Lacey Olympia WA Chiropractor for short term care for your back & neck pain. Walk-Ins Welcome – No Appointment Needed Simple & convenient on-line scheduling Visit my website DrDavidWarwick.com Located at 8650 Martin Way E Ste 207, Lacey, WA 98516 360-951-4504

Follow Us

Related Posts

How Do I Find the Right Chiropractor for Me?

How Do I Find the Right Chiropractor for Me?

We Answer: How Do I Find the Right Chiropractor for Me? If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I find the right chiropractor for me?” you’re not alone. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Choosing the right chiropractor...

Why Are There Different Chiropractic Techniques?

Why Are There Different Chiropractic Techniques?

At Warwick Chiropractic & Massage in Lacey–Olympia, Washington, one of the most common questions new patients ask is: “Why are there different chiropractic techniques?” It’s a great question. If you’re looking for an Olympia chiropractor, you’ll notice not every...

How Do Adjustments Work?

How Do Adjustments Work?

How Do Adjustments Work? Chiropractic adjustments work by applying precise, controlled force to specific joints to reduce pressure and restore alignment. This improves nerve communication and activates your body’s natural healing response. Adjustments are specialized...

Why Are Chiropractors Different?

Why Are Chiropractors Different?

Why Are Chiropractors Different? Chiropractors are different because each one brings their own mix of training, experience, and personal style to care. They tailor treatments to your unique needs, making every approach a little different—like a craft, not a copy....

Once I Go to a Chiropractor Do I Have to Keep Going?

Once I Go to a Chiropractor Do I Have to Keep Going?

Once I go to a chiropractor do I have to keep going? Overwhelmingly, one of the most common concerns among potential chiropractic patients is the belief that starting treatment means committing to endless visits. You might be surprised to learn that this is actually a...