Hearts are everywhere in February. But before you celebrate with toasts and overindulge in the candy, remember to celebrate the most important heart in your life: Your heart!

“February is Heart Health Month and we want to remind you that keeping your heart healthy is something you should do every day, every month. Heart disease and other conditions that lead up to heart disease can happen to anyone at any age and it’s never too early to start,” said Health Plan of San Joaquin (HPSJ) Utilization Management Director Karen Cuslidge, RN.

There are some factors that put you at higher risk of heart disease including:

1. High blood pressure
2. High blood cholesterol
3. Smoking
4. Obesity
5. Diabetes
6. Physical inactivity
7. Unhealthy eating habits

Follow these A-B-C’s to take control of your heart health at any age.

A. Do Not Smoke—If you are currently smoking consider quitting. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
B. Manage conditions—Work with your doctor to manage your blood pressure and cholesterol.
C. Eat healthy foods—Try to fill at least half of your plate with vegetables and fruits.
D. Stay Active—Get at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.

In the United States, adults tend to have hearts that are 7 years older than they should be. Check your heart age here, via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Heart health is something we should think about every day. But with our busy lives its easy to forget this vital part that keeps us going. Give your heart a little love this February and take control of your heart health – all year long,” said HPSJ Health Education Manager Setar Testo, MPH.

© Health Plan of San Joaquin, December 2019, permission to reprint in full, with attribution.