I will speak to you today about our hearts. February is American Heart Month, and this Friday, you can wear wear to support the fight against heart disease. Heart attack is the number one killer in the United States. There are so many diseases and illnesses to be weary of, and this silent killer is often overlooked. I will quote a few facts from the Center from Disease Control and Prevention that I believe we all should take heed to.
- Every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event.
- In 2009, an estimated 785,000 Americans had a coronary attack, and about 470,000 will have a recurring attack.
- Heart disease is the leading cause among older women, ages 65 and older.
- Heart disease is the third leading cause of death among young women, ages 25-44.
- Heart disease is the second leading cause among women between the ages of 45-64.
- Risk factors include high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco use and second hand smoke.
- Signs of an attack (tightening in the chest, discomfort in the upper body, mild cramps, and shortness of breath) are often overlooked until an attack is under way.
What to do
Protect your heart! This is a message we often preach to keep safe emotionally but it has as much bearing physically, mentally and in so many other areas of life. Protecting your heart from a coronary attack means making lifestyle changes that will give you the best chances at avoiding a heart attack! Make small decisions in your food intake, increase your physical activity, avoid situations that will expose you to smoking and reduce your stress level. Habits are formed, and maintaining them requires a commitment and discipline. It may not be easy at first, but it is certainly worth the effort.
Steps I am taking to protect my heart, among other things:
- Eat better! This may sound simple but healthy requires a commitment, and I am making efforts to keep this commitment going. For recipes, check out ChocolateOrchid, juices that will make you want to try an Epicurean diet, and 101 Cookbooks, tons of recipes and there is absolutely no way you cannot find what you’re looking for on that site.
- I have shared that physical activity is a challenge for me, but I know it is a must. I also can see a significant change in my moods, level of happiness, fitness, looks, etc when I exercise. I just have more energy to get things done. Since this is a challenge for me, I have been making every little bit count. I am back to tracking my steps, using my pedometer. I force myself to keep an exercise buddy. Join challenges when I would rather hide out. I also participate in America on the Move. I have been a member for over two years now, and I just tonight logged in after a long absence. I invite all of you to join me as I am starting a new trail tomorrow morning. My member name is Fleurzty Pierre. If you do decide to join, you can send me a friend request and we can take some trips together around the country, virtually that is 
Also, remember to wear Red on Friday, February 5th in support of the fight against heart disease in women.
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