The best ways to a healthy heart
It’s heart month, and this year’s theme is “Do your Part, Check your Heart”.
The heart is the organ at the center of the circulatory system that sends oxygen and nutrients through blood, to all other areas of the body. There’s no denying that it is important, but sometimes we take it for granted. The NHF is here to help you and your family live healthier, longer. Here are the best ways to do your part for a healthy heart.
- Feed your family healthy meals. Prepare meals that are balanced in nutrients, low in salt and sugar and have the right kinds of fats. Avoid saturated fats. Unsaturated fats such as omega 3 fats found in nuts, and seeds are safe to consume in the right portions.
- Know your numbers. Get screened for high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol among other common conditions so that you can be aware of your health status and be able to give the attention that is needed.
- Laugh a lot. According to the American Heart Association, laughter can reduce stress, and raise your “good cholesterol” levels. Laughter also triggers chemical responses in the brain that lead to feelings of pleasure and well-being, causing a decrease improvement to blood flow and overall health in the long-term.
- Know your history. Family history and genetics play a role in the development of heart-related challenges. Do your research to find out if any of your older relatives from either sides of the family have heart conditions.
- Get moving. Being physical active is a sure way to care for your heart. Exercise lowers blood pressure, strengthen heart muscles and prevents the development of heart-related diseases.
- Sleep. According to the CDC, good sleep isn’t only important for energy —it’s critical for your heart health, too. Sleeping less than seven hours each night increases the risk of a heart attack or heart disease. Take your sleep time seriously.
- Spread the knowledge. Do your part for others by sharing what you know. Raise awareness so that your friends and relatives can learn the risks and do what it takes to maintain a healthy heart.
Rheumatic Fever/Heart Disease, Ischaemic Heart Disease, and other heart-related conditions are covered on the NHFCard Programme. If you’re living with any of these conditions enrol in the NHFCard programme to receive subsidies on your medication.
Follow the NHF on all social media platforms @nhfjamaica to stay up-to-date with how you can benefit from our services, and how we continue to serve you.
The NHF is here for health, the NHF is here for you.
