Did you know that 25% of deaths in the US are caused by heart disease? This translates to a person dying from a heart-related condition every 40 seconds. Coronary heart disease (CHD) accounts for the majority of cardiovascular deaths, followed by stroke and heart failure. In hopes of saving lives, Hospitality Health ER continues to encourage community members to make healthier choices and practice good heart health on a daily basis.
One study performed by The Journal of Family Practice by Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr. suggested that a low-fat, strict vegetarian diet may reverse heart disease. The study revealed that only one person out of 177 participants who maintained the plant-based diet suffered a stroke, which was found to be a recurrence of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand,13 of the 21 people who didn’t stick to the diet experienced a cardiovascular event.
How Can You Make a Difference for Heart Health Month?
1) Teach your kids about maintaining a healthy heart by:
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- Exercising together
- Serve your family a “Heart Healthy Food of the Day.” Some foods that promote cardiovascular health include blueberries, honey, and broccoli.
- Talk about things that affect the heart negatively:
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Too Much Salt
- Fatty or Greasy Foods
2) Ask your child’s school to get involved by adding more physical activity into their day — even if it’s just a few jumping jacks between lessons. This can help establish good habits early.
3) Ask leaders and health professionals to educate their communities about heart disease through speaking engagements, literature, and school visits.
What are Some Foods You Can Eat to Support Heart Health?
- Wild Salmon
- Sardines
- Liver
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Chia Seeds
- Oatmeal
- Blueberries
- Coffee
- Red Wine
- Green Tea
- Soy Milk
- Raisins
- Broccoli
- Brussel Sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Sweet Potatoes
- Oranges
To read more about honoring other health awareness months, read our blog on Breast Cancer Awareness Month or Child Eye Health Safety Month.
