The purpose of American Heart Month is to raise awareness about heart disease and encourage everyone to become heart smart. People who are heart smart know that while heart disease is highly preventable, it remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.

Being heart smart also means knowing what steps to take to protect and strengthen your heart. Here are some heart smart basics that can make a big difference:

  • Eat a balanced diet that’s low in trans fat and salt.
  • Get moving! Try walking for 10 minutes, three times a day, five days a week.
  • Know your blood pressure numbers and take steps to keep your readings at or below 130/80.
  • Talk to your health care professional about cholesterol and how to lower your bad cholesterol if it’s too high.
  • Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit. For help visit SmokeFree.gov.
  • Start (or continue) a conversation with your health care provider about heart disease and the steps you can take to prevent or manage it.

Follow this link to visit BMH’s Center for Cardiovascular Health.