Valentine's Day may be over, but young hearts still need tending.
February is American Heart Month, and health organizations around the country are teaming up to promote heart-healthy habits and spread cardiovascular disease awareness.
In the United States, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that heart disease is the cause of death for about 1 in 4 Americans every year.
The good news? Most heart-related complications are preventable. Communicating with your doctor about risk factors, engaging in daily physical activity and eating a healthy diet are all steps toward a disease-free future.
Even though heart disease risk increases with age, children and young adults should modify behavior or adopt healthy habits now. Here's how:
Stay active
Being sedentary can lead to an increased risk of coronary heart disease, one of the most common types of heart disease. According to D.C.’s Department of Health, exercise can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Health
Limit the amount of screen time your kids get per day and encourage outdoor activities. Instead of watching your kids sit in front of a TV screen or play video games, play a game of soccer with the kids after school or take them to the park on a weekend afternoon.
Snack healthy
Have healthy, low-calorie snacks around the house for kids when they come home from school. Involve your kids in grocery shopping and meal-planning. By having them pick out their favorite produce, they will be more likely to enjoy healthy-eating.
Encourage family mealtime
The work week can be hectic, but try to cook more meals than eating out. Many restaurants don’t list calories, sodium or saturated fat amounts on the menu. By preparing homemade dishes and packing school lunches, you know exactly what nutrients your kids are consuming.
Want to celebrate Heart Month with family and friends?
Here is a list of free and ticketed events happening in the Washington, DC:
Free events at Howard University Hospital:
- Heart Healthy Wellness and Prevention Day on Friday, Feb. 26
- Howard in the Community: Family Health & Fun Day on Saturday, Feb. 27
For more information, click here.
Ticketed events sponsored by the American Heart Association
- American Heart Association's 18th Annual Greater Washington Region Heart Ball on Saturday, Feb. 27
- 2016 Heart's Delight Wine Tasting & Auction on March 9-12 and April 20
