Women Have To Be Heart Smart

Most women know they should eat a healthy diet and commit to exercise to prevent heart disease — but many don't realize just how significant a threat heart disease is to their health. As many as 1 in 3 women die from cardiovascular disease—or approximately one woman every 80 seconds. And according to Go Red for Women, 90% of American women have at least one risk factor for heart disease.

Not sure where your heart disease risk lies? Your weight, blood pressure, and whether or not you have or are at risk for diabetes or high cholesterol can reveal a lot about the health of your heart. Hypertension can damage arteries and prevent blood flow, while high cholesterol causes arteries to harden or become clogged with plaque buildup. Both conditions increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and intestinal damage.

People with diabetes also often have high blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides—all of which are precursors to heart disease. Obesity is closely linked because it spikes cholesterol levels, raises blood pressure and can cause diabetes.

According to the American Heart Association, simple changes can help you take better care of your heart and reduce your risk for heart disease. These include exercising at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week, eating more heart-healthy foods such as whole grains, limiting saturated and trans fats, quitting smoking and reducing stress levels.

Find a primary care doctor near you to schedule a wellness exam and learn your numbers.

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