February is American Heart Month! It’s the perfect time for families to come together and focus on heart health together. Did you know that just 30 minutes of physical activity a day can help reduce the risk of heart disease? Fun activities like dancing, playing tag, riding bikes, or even having a snowball fight can be great ways to get your heart pumping as a family.
If the winter weather has you stuck indoors, don’t worry! You can still stay active. Set up an indoor obstacle course, throw a dance party, or play a game of stuffed animal hide and seek. Whether inside or out, there are plenty of ways families can strengthen their hearts together!
Eating heart-healthy foods is another easy (and tasty) way to care for your heart. A fun way to start is by creating a “rainbow plate” filled with colorful and nutritious meals. The Mayo Clinic suggests filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables like berries and leafy greens. Incorporating lean proteins such as beans and fish is also a great choice for lowering cholesterol.
For more tips and inspiration, check out the American Heart Association’s collection of heart-healthy recipes and cooking videos. Get the whole family involved in the process, and you’ll all feel proud of the healthy, tasty meals you create together!
Don’t forget that relaxation and sleep are just as important for heart health! Stress can increase blood pressure, so it’s essential to find ways to relax together—whether that’s reading a book, practicing deep breathing, or simply enjoying quiet time. End each day by ensuring everyone gets plenty of sleep (7-9 hours for adults, 9-11 hours for kids) to give their hearts the rest they need.
By making small, fun changes to your daily routine, your family will enjoy stronger, healthier hearts all year long! For more tips on staying heart-healthy, visit the American Heart Association, and remember, heart health is something the whole family can work on together!
Sources:
- The American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations | American Heart Association
- Heart-healthy diet: 8 steps to prevent heart disease | Mayo Clinic
- To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives | American Heart Association
- Ten Ways to Improve Your Heart Health Infographic | American Heart Association
