Heartfelt Health

Each February, American Heart Month reminds us that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The latest data shows just how important it is for all of us to take heart health seriously, and how much power we have to make a difference through everyday habits.

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S.
• One person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease.
• In 2023, 919,032 Americans died from cardiovascular disease, accounting for 1 in every 3 deaths nationwide.

These numbers are sobering, but they also highlight why awareness and prevention matter. So, what can you do to decrease your risk of developing cardiovascular disease?

1. Move your body throughout the day

• Take short walking breaks
• Try stretch sessions between meetings
• Use the stairs when possible
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week

2. Choose foods that fuel your heart

• Add more fruits and vegetables
• Choose whole grains
• Include lean proteins like fish, beans, or poultry
• Limit added sugars and highly processed snacks

3. Prioritize stress management

• Deep breathing or mindfulness exercises
• Short outdoor breaks
• Setting boundaries around work time
• Talking with a friend or colleague

4. Know your numbers

Understanding your health metrics empowers you to take action early. Consider checking:

• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol
• Blood sugar
• Body weight trends

5. Get enough sleep

• Aim for 7–9 hours
• Keep a consistent sleep schedule
• Limit screens before bed
• Create a calming nighttime routine

Your heart works hard all day, sleep gives it the recovery time it needs.

Take the first steps today to combat cardiovascular disease and begin to protect your heart.