This February, as we celebrate American Heart Month, the Henry & Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare Clinics are urging residents to prioritize their cardiovascular health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many cases are preventable with the right steps.
Key strategies include scheduling annual checkups, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods. Regular physical activity, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing diabetes are also critical.
For more information on the “Heart Healthy” services available through the First Choice Healthcare Clinics, call Kewanee (309) 852-5272; Colona (309) 792-4011; and Toulon (309) 852-3115.
Monitor your blood pressure & get your cholesterol checked. The Department and our First Choice Healthcare Clinics remind area residents that our Family Nurse Practitioners can help with the management of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If you don’t know your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, we have services that can help you see where you stand.
Eat a healthy diet. Choosing healthy meals and snack options can help you avoid CVD and its complications. Limiting sodium in your diet can lower your blood pressure. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables—adults should have at least five servings each day. Eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol and high in fiber.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for CVD.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Don’t smoke. Cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for CVD. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, quit as soon as possible.
Limit alcohol use. Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can increase your blood pressure.
Manage your diabetes. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely, and talk with your healthcare team about treatment options.
Take your medicine. If you’re taking medication to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or another condition, follow the instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don’t understand something.