Do you know heart disease is the number one cause of death in the US? An estimated 600,000 people die of heart disease in the US each year and 90% of women have one or more risk factors for developing it.

The American Heart Association has designated February as American Heart Month to raise awareness of heart disease and bring attention to steps you can take toward prevention.

Of course, the Ask, Listen, Learn team always encourages families to follow healthy lifestyle regimens, but this month in particular it’s great to take time to make some conscious changes keep your heart healthy.

Heart Health Tips

• Get moving every day! The AHA encourages walking for all ages, at a minimum

• Take control of stress with positive, healthy habits

• Cut back your sodium intake to lower blood pressure. Check the labels on canned goods and processed foods

• Use olive oil instead of butter when cooking- it contains healthy fats, not saturated and trans fats

• Dark green leafys like kale are heart ‘superfoods’ for their antioxidants, omega-3’s and fiber

For more tips on how to raise a heart healthy family, visit the AHA “Healthier Kids” page.