It’s mid-August. The county fair is over. The state fair is in full swing. School is back in session. It is time to
focus on your health, right? Ever wonder if you are “too young” for heart disease? The answer is no. Heart
disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, it is never too early to know your risk and take
action to reduce your risk. The term heart disease encompasses a number of conditions that affect the heart
and blood vessels. The most common cause is atherosclerosis or blocked arteries. While there are some
uncontrollable risk factors such as genetics, age, race and gender. There are also several risk factors.
You have the opportunity to make behavioral and lifestyle changes to positively impact your health and risk of
heart disease.
1. Know your risks.
Controllable risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and higher
weight as well as eating behaviors, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and diabetes.
2. Knowing your numbers.
It is important to know your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI or weight, as you may not
experience any symptoms if they are too high. High cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your
arteries and atherosclerosis.
3. Make heart-healthy dietary choices.
Reduce fat by making dairy substitutions and using lean meat. Reduce sodium by using no-salt canned foods
and rinsing your canned vegetables. Increase your fiber with whole fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Check
out some tips for altering your recipes at http://bit.ly/AlterRecipes. 4. Take care of yourself
Increase your daily physical activity and manage your stress well. Set a goal for 150 minutes a week of
physical activity. Engage in stress busters such as laughing, listening to music, or working on a hobby.
5. Talk with your health care provider.
If you have questions or concerns about your heart health, bring them up with your health care
provider. They can support you and your health with specific information.
Join Allison Hillis, Howard County Health & Human Sciences Educator for Purdue Extension, for the Be Heart Smart
program on four Thursday nights: September 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Kokomo. Purdue Extension’s Be
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Heart Smart program is a community program comprising four heart-health classes. It’s intended to complement
healthcare providers’ recommendations and help you, or your loved one, prevent or manage heart disease.
Register by calling the Purdue Extension – Howard County office at 765-456-2313. Register before September 7, 2021.
Space is limited, so enroll now. For more information, visit www.extension.purdue.edu/howard. Resources used Purdue Extension Be Heart Smart Program and American Heart Association, www.heart.org. Please contact our office with any questions or to request a photo.
