Heart health facts you should know
/February is American Heart Month and since heart disease runs in my family, I want to make sure I bring attention to some overlooked facts that you can certainly benefit from knowing. It’s all about awareness and information, right?
Like many African Americans, hypertension, high cholesterol, arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and atherosclerosis (plaquing of the arteries) are heath challenges faced by loved ones. Plus, as a woman I find it astounding that we have the highest mortality rate when it comes to heart disease.
So no particular system of the body get’s ignored, I typically aim for generalized wellness. However, I do feel it important to know your blood pressure so you have a base line through out life. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 and a solid resting heart rate range is 60-100 beats per minute.
Keeping track of how your heart is functioning is also good to note if feeling anxious or stressed. However, a cardiovascular event can occur even without signs before hand.
Below you’ll find several facts you should know about heart health. I don’t meant to make this a “Debbie Downer” share but I find these stats interesting and important:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for African American and white women in the United States
Only 1 in 5 African-American women believes she is personally at risk.
High risk factors for cardiovascular disease include: High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, diabetes, being overweight/obese, poor diet, physical inactivity smoking and excessive alcohol use
Almost two-thirds (64%) of women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms.
For symptoms of a heart attack and stroke in women click HERE.
Of African-American women ages 20 and older, 49 percent have heart diseases.
What do we do with this information?
Keep your life style healthy and balanced and the body will follow…
Limit stress
Eat an anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of veggies
Mange and regulate blood sugar
Manage sweet cravings
Exercise regularly
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol intake
Stay aware of your body
Try not to harbor resentment
Forgive
Commit to self healing
I hope this has been helpful for you.
Until next time….
Blessings,
