Never Too Late for Heart Healthy Choices
February is American Heart Month, and at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we want to take this opportunity to share some vital information with our Nature Coast patients that will improve the health of your heart, your feet, and your entire body. Were you aware that heart disease is the #1 killer of Americans? Fortunately, there are many steps you can take—big and small—that will reduce your risk of heart disease. And, the good news is, it’s never too late! Even a lifetime of an unhealthy habit can be changed and yield positive results that can decrease your risk of having a heart attack or stroke or developing diabetes and other diseases common to people with heart disease.
Small Changes—Big Difference
Your best bet when trying to change habits is to take it slow and steady. Believe it or not, even seemingly little changes can have a significant impact. By contrast, trying to make many big changes all at once usually results in frustration and failure. Below are some simple steps you can take, starting today. Pick out one or two and do them until they become a firmly established part of your routine. Then, go on and add another.
Take three 10-minute walks each day. These can be indoors or out, and speed is not important. What is key is adding more physical activity to your day. Experts say to strive for 150 active minutes a week. If foot pain keeps you from being active, contact our Hudson office at 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 for an appointment so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine your feet and diagnose and treat your podiatric problem.
Don’t sit for more than an hour at a time. If you’re at a desk or watching TV, set the alarm on your phone or watch to remind you to get up after an hour. Spending extended periods in one position decreases blood flow.
Swap seltzer for soda. This one change will dramatically reduce your calorie and sugar intake.
Call a friend or family member at least twice a week. Social connections give us an outlet to share concerns and reduce stress, controlling to avoid hypertension.
Use a smaller plate. Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if you are carrying excess pounds will help keep your heart healthy. A smaller plate automatically causes you to take smaller portions.
Simple and easy changes will have you on your way to a healthier heart and more active life. Contact us if you have questions about heart health and your feet.