Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer of women? Too often it's thought of as a men's disease. But women suffer from its effects too. I worked as a cardiovascular nurse specialist for 25 years so I witnessed this first hand.
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute is sponsoring The Heart Truth, a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease. They have established the first Friday of February as National Wear Red Day.
This year it falls on February 1st ...which just so happens to be my birthday!
And did I mention that red is my favorite color?
The following comes from The Heart Truth:
Ten Commandments for a Healthy Heart
- Know your risk factors for heart disease.
- Talk to your doctor about reducing your risk of heart disease.
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly.
- Know your cholesterol numbers (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
- Have your blood sugar level checked for diabetes.
- Do not smoke cigarettes.
- Eat for your heart health.
- Get regular physical activity. (at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily or most days of the week)
- Aim for a healthy weight.
- Know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and the importance of seeking help immediately.
I was born with a congenital heart defect and had open heart surgery when I was seven years old. Although I am now healthy, I still have the scar down my chest as a reminder. I will share more personal stories with you throughout the month of February.
So wear red on February 1st. And get out and do some exercise. Here's to good heart health!
Blessings and love,
