Tips to a Healthy Heart

Cardiovascular disease is our nation's No. 1 killer. Physical inactivity significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Seventy percent of Americans don't get enough exercise, blaming lack of time and lack of motivation. Ignoring fitness and health increases chances for disease.

I had the pleasure of participating in the annual 2008 Start! Guilford Heart and Stroke Walk here in Greensboro this past Saturday for the third straight year. This 5K non-competitive walking event is designed to bring public awareness to physical activity and a heart-healthy lifestyle, while at the same time raise the critical dollars needed to fund the life-saving mission of the American Heart Association.

Since 1924 the American Heart Association has helped protect people of all ages and ethnicities from the ravages of heart disease and stroke. These diseases, the Nation's No.1 and No.3 killers, claim more than 910,000 American lives a year. The association invested more than $543 million in fiscal year 2005-06 for research, professional and public education, and advocacy so people across America can live stronger, longer lives.

To help reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke, practicing better lifestyle habits is essential. Healthier food habits can help you reduce your risk for heart attack. Choosing the right foods to eat and preparing foods in a more healthy way are just a few steps to creating a more healthful eating plan. Another step to keeping your heart healthy is regular exercise and fitness routine. Jogging, cycling, dancing, running, and especially walking all can add up to a healthier heart. Research shows that for every hour of regular exercise, you can increase your life expectancy by two hours.

If you chose to take a supplement route to help maintain your overall cardiovascular health, Omega 3 and Coenzyme Q 10 are good choices. Research has shown that a diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids has cholesterol lowering properties. Omega 3 can also help the heart in other ways such as lowering the risk of blood clots and assisting in lowering blood pressure. CoQ10 has also been shown to have helped maintain a healthy heart, and is especially beneficial for those with congestive heart failure. CoQ10 is naturally produced in the body and is essential for the normal functioning of cells.

By practicing all the things I have mentioned, including eating better and exercising regularly, you can maintain a healthy heart and keep your ticker happy. And keep this in mind; a quote by Faith Seehill - "Hear your heart. Heart your health."