Love Your Heart: 3 Changes Us Moms Can Make Today for Better Heart Health – One in five ladies will be killed by the leading cause of death in women in the United States: heart disease. We need to do better to be here longer for our little ones! Find out three changes to make and take this free 28-day challenge towards a healthier heart right here on Newsymom!
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
As Valentine’s Day paints the town in hues of love and affection, it’s also the PERFECT time to turn our attention to matters of the heart in a more literal sense. While we celebrate romance and devotion, it’s important not to overlook the health of our actual hearts, especially for us moms. February marks not only Valentine’s Day but also American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart health and encourage preventive measures against heart disease.
The Leading Cause of Death in Women…
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States, claiming the lives of one in every five females. Despite this alarming statistic, many women still underestimate their risk of developing heart-related issues. Additionally, women often experience different symptoms than men when it comes to heart attacks, leading to delayed treatment or misdiagnosis.
Why should heart health be a priority for moms? Simply put, a healthy heart is essential for maintaining a fulfilling life with loved ones, especially our babies. Moms are often the heartbeat of the family, the ones who keep everything running smoothly. However, neglecting our own health can jeopardize our ability to care for our children and enjoy precious moments with them.
So, what can moms do today to start prioritizing their heart health?
Here are three simple changes we can start with for better heart health:
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Prioritize Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise into your routine doesn’t have to be daunting. Whether it’s going for a brisk walk with the stroller, taking a family bike ride, or joining a local fitness class, finding activities that you enjoy and can do with your kids can make staying active feel more manageable and enjoyable. Find an accountability buddy in a family member, friend, or fellow mom-in-arms to help you stay active!
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Nourish Your Body: A balanced diet plays a pivotal role in heart health. Swap out processed foods for whole, nutrient-rich options like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Get creative in the kitchen by involving your kids in meal preparation, and teaching them about the importance of making healthy choices from a young age. Bonus points: Visit your local farmers’ market during the summer to pair being active and finding delicious, local food to nourish yourself!
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Manage Stress: Easier said than done, am I right? Juggling the demands of motherhood, work, and everyday life can take a toll on mental and physical well-being. (Honestly, most days being locked in a loony bin sounds like a vacation at this point.) Practice stress-relieving techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help alleviate tension and promote relaxation. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from family and friends when needed, and carve out time for self-care activities that rejuvenate your mind and spirit. Whether that looks like shopping, reading a book, or catching a new movie solo, do activities that help fuel your own happiness meter!
Make the Change for a Healthier Heart Today!
Today is the perfect opportunity for moms to take proactive steps towards a healthier heart. By making small changes to our lifestyle and mindset, we can not only reduce our risk of heart disease but also set a positive example for our little ones. Let’s spread love this Valentine’s Day by showing our hearts some well-deserved care and attention. After all, a healthy heart is the ultimate gift we can give to ourselves and our loved ones.
Oh, before we go, we need to mention one more important thing! The Tuscarawas County Health Department has always been an advocate for happier, healthier lives for Tuscarawas County mamas. Make sure you’re doing your due diligence for your health and wellness and get updated vaccines, physicals, and check in on your reproductive health, too! Call them at (330) 343-5555 x. 1740 or 1810 to set up an appointment to start taking better care of yourself today.
Stay healthy, and have a love-filled Valentine’s Day! <3
Melissa Klatt
Reporting
