Heart Disease is the number one killer of women in America and it is an indiscriminate killer. Heart disease does not care if you are young or old, fit or overweight, or if you have no family history of the disease. It can strike anyone at anytime.
But there is good news – you can take an active part in reducing your risk and protecting your heart. Granted, most of these “tips” may sound like common sense, and you may have heard them all before; but sometimes we have to hear things multiple times before we are willing to make the necessary changes. The doctors of The Woman’s Clinic in Jackson and Madison, Mississippi, understand that some of these steps can be quite difficult:
- If you smoke it is time to quit! Talk to your doctor about options to help you stop smoking.
- Keep your blood sugar under control. If you are noticing swings in your blood sugar, speak to your doctor.
- Keep your blood pressure under control
- Know your cholesterol number and keep it at normal levels
- Exercise at least 30 minutes – everyday.
- If you are more than a few pounds overweight now is the time to take control
- Lower your stress levels where possible
- Know your family history
- Eat a varied and healthy diet full of fresh vegetables and lean meats.
Right now you are probably feeling overwhelmed. If you don’t feel like you have control over your health and you are ready to make a change, pick one or two points from the list and start small – then add more over time. Any change is better than no change. And if you need help accomplishing your goals, talk to your doctor at your next appointment and see what The Woman’s Clinic can do to help.
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