February is National Heart Month!

Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer of women?

Most cardiac events can be prevented, yet cardiovascular diseases continue to be women’s greatest health threat. Eating more fruits, vegetables, chicken and fish leads to better heart health.

It’s also recommended that women get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. And it’s ok to break it up into 10- to 20-minute chunks.

Make the commitment to take charge of your heart health and get to know the signs of a heart attack, which can be different than it is in men.

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Attack

If you have any of these signs, call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away:

  • Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.
  • Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
  • Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausean, or lightheadedness.
  • As with men, the most common heart attack symptom for women is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Talk to your health care provide about the right prevention methods for you or ask for a referral to a dietitian or nutritionist to learn more about the right nutrition for you.

In the meantime, find some heart-healthy recipes right here!