National Wear Red Day

Red is the color of love and passion. It’s bold and vibrant. It demands our attention and inspires us to action. This February, red takes on another meaning. Friday, February 5th is National Wear Red Day, a day dedicated to women’s heart health. 

Heart disease and stroke are still the leading causes of deaths among women, nearly 1 in 3— that’s more than all cancers combined. Here are some tips to keep your heart strong:

Get Active.  A fit and active lifestyle cannot only help you look and feel better, but it can help you live long enough to enjoy it. Studies have shown that 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity can significantly lower your risk of heart disease.

Control Cholesterol.  One simple way to control your cholesterol levels is to avoid eating a lot of red meats and processed foods. Instead fill out your diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Manage Blood Pressure.  Higher blood pressure levels place additional strain on your arteries, causing them to tear and generate scar tissue. Over time, these scarred areas can trap plaque, creating clogged and hardened arteries and overworking your heart.

Stop Smoking.  That cigarette may get you through a stressful day, but it also damages your entire system, increasing your risk for coronary heart disease, hardened arteries, aneurysm and blood clots. Not the best choice for a stress reliever!

You take care of your family, so why not take care of yourself and your heart?  For more information about National Wear Red Day and women’s heart health, visit Go Red for Women.