Heart Health Tips for American Heart Month

Show Your Heart Some Love This American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, a reminder to pay attention to one of the most important organs in your body: your heart. It beats more than 100,000 times a day, pumping oxygen and nutrients to every part of your body, yet many of us don’t think about its health until something feels wrong. This month is the perfect time to check in with your heart, take proactive steps to protect it, and build habits that last a lifetime.

This American Heart Month, give your heart the love it deserves with Dr. Kazi Russell’s simple habits that make a big impact.

Eat Heart-Healthy Foods

Nutrition plays a powerful role in heart health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol, and reduce inflammation.

• Fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants and fiber, which help fight free radicals and maintain healthy blood vessels.
• Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice provide complex carbohydrates that sustain energy and support healthy cholesterol levels.
• Lean proteins such as chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes supply the building blocks your body needs without excess saturated fat.
• Healthy fats, found in salmon, avocado, nuts, and olive oil, help maintain healthy cholesterol and support overall cardiovascular function.

Even small swaps, like using avocado instead of butter, snacking on almonds instead of chips, or adding an extra serving of vegetables to your plate, can make a significant difference over time.

 

Get Moving, Your Heart Will Thank You

Physical activity strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or roughly 30 minutes most days.

This doesn’t mean you need to run marathons or spend hours in the gym. Simple activities like:

• Taking a brisk walk around your neighborhood
• Dancing to your favorite playlist
• Biking with friends or family
• Trying a new group fitness class

The key is consistency. Even moderate movement every day can improve blood pressure, heart muscle strength, and overall cardiovascular health. Not sure where to start? There are plenty of scenic spots to explore. Try one of these nearby walking trails to make fitness feel more like fun than a chore:

• 7 Beautiful Walking Trails in the Suburbs of Atlanta 
• Historic Downtown Woodstock Walking Tour 
• Top Walking Trails in Suwanee, Georgia 
• Scenic Spots Near Canton, Ball Ground & Hickory Flat 

Lace up your shoes, grab a friend, and make your next workout an adventure.

 

Don’t Skip Your Checkups

Your heart health isn’t just about diet and exercise. Regular checkups with your healthcare provider are essential. During your annual physical, your provider can monitor important heart health indicators such as:

• Blood pressure — high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease
• Cholesterol levels — managing cholesterol helps prevent plaque buildup in arteries ​​
• Weight and body composition — maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the heart

Early detection of any potential issues gives you the opportunity to make changes or start treatment before complications develop.

 

Know the Signs of Heart Trouble

Being aware of warning signs can save lives. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Chest pain or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

Heart disease can develop silently, so don’t wait for severe symptoms. Regular checkups combined with healthy habits are your best defense.

 

Small Steps Make a Big Difference

Caring for your heart doesn’t require drastic measures. Small, sustainable changes like adding more vegetables to your plate, going for daily walks, or scheduling your annual physical, add up over time.

This American Heart Month, take a moment to show your heart some love. At Aylo Health, we’re here to help you every step of the way with preventive care, guidance on nutrition and exercise, and routine screenings to keep your heart healthy for years to come. Schedule your annual physical today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier heart.

 

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