The Stamford Department of Health and Social Services (SDHSS) recognizes February as National Heart Health Month to raise public awareness of risk factors for heart disease and stroke and to promote preventive measures. The community is encouraged to show support for National Wear Red Day on February 3rd by wearing red. The purpose of this national campaign is promote awareness of the leading cause of death among women – heart disease.
According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. It can also be also preventable. By adhering to a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and making smart lifestyle choices, the risk of developing cardiovascular disease can be reduced.
Tips for Families to Avoid Heart Disease and Stroke:
1. Encourage everyone to eat well-balanced meals, including (steamed, boiled, grilled or baked) lean meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low fat products.
2. Encourage your children to eat at least five servings of vegetables and fruit each day.
3. Offer water, low fat milk or fresh, unsweetened fruit juices to drink rather than soft drinks.
4. Include fruit or vegetables in your children’s school lunch or snack.
5. Read food labels to watch for excess salt, especially in processed foods.
6. Plan more family activities outside. Build 30 minutes of exercise into your day and build physical activity into day-to-day chores. Enjoy a walk after dinner, take the stairs rather than the elevator, or head to the park.
7. Make your home smoke-free and try to ensure that your children don’t smoke. Reduce your child’s exposure to second hand smoke outside the home.
8. Limit screen time. Keep the TV or computer off as much as possible and make sure your children’s leisure time is packed with plenty of physical activity. Accompany your child to school on foot or bicycle when appropriate.
9. Parents should set a good example for their children by eating healthily, being physically active on a regular basis, and by not smoking.
If you think anyone in your family is at risk for heart disease, check with your health professional.
For information about American Heart Month and fact sheets on heart disease and stroke, visit the American Heart Association website at www.americanheart.org.
