Staying healthy in red so I can sled with Popcorn (oh, oh, we're heading straight for the pond!)
February is Heart Month so let's continue talking about our hearts. Have no fear, ladies! Good health is within reach!
Here are "Life's Simple 7":
- Get Active. The AHA (American Heart Association) recommends physical activity of at least 150 minutes (moderate intensity) or 75 minutes (vigorous intensity) each week. (does sledding count?) I added Zumba and invited Jane Fonda to walk with me so I'm feeling better and looking good...or am I feeling good and looking better?
- Control your cholesterol. Shoot for total cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dl. (My cholesterol is high so I'm working on this).
- Eat more healthfully. Fruits & veggies help control weight & your blood pressure. Eat fish twice a week & choose lean meats & poultry without skin (this is hard for me 'cause I love southern fried chicken!). Select fat-free, 1 percent fat, & low-fat dairy products.
- Manage your blood pressure. Aim for blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg.
- Lose Weight (ugh!) Shoot for a body mass index ogles than 25. For help in calculating you BMI, log on to mylifecheck.heart.org.
- Reduce your blood sugar. Even when glucose levels are under control, diabetes greatly increases the risk of heart disease & stroke. Most people with diabetes die of some form of heart or blood vessel disease.
- Stop smoking. Now.
Have you heard enough? Don't worry, we can do this together. Start slow. But start. For me being post-menopausal with a thyroid problem, and 65, it's an up-hill battle to lose weight, but I'm determined to stay healthy so I can enjoy the next 25+ years.
My next blog will include heart attack warnings, signs, & symptoms, and when to call 911. Until then, keep calling on Jesus, and start walking those extra steps!
I stride freely through wide open spaces as I look for Your truth and Your wisdom. Psalm 119:45 The Message
