Follow these tips to keep your HEART HEALTHY!

1. Schedule a Check-Up:

Your doctor can help you manage cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and other conditions that lead to heart disease. But only if he/she knows you have them!

2. Eat Your Fish:

The omega-3 fatty acids in fish – or fish-oil capsules – will increase your good cholesterol and help with circulation, brain function, memory, depression and more.

3. Get Up and Move:

Make exercise part of your getting-up-in-the-morning routine. Walking is a great way for almost everyone to get prevent weight gain and keep the heart strong.

4. Cut Down on Salt:

Excess salt causes you to retain excess water, placing pressure on your blood vessels and heart. Read food labels, avoid processed and fast foods, and just say no to dill pickles!

5. Avoid Trans Fats:

In general, oil from nuts, seeds, plants and fish is okay in moderation. Avoid artery-clogging trans fats in fast foods like French fries, commercial baked goods like doughnuts and many candy bars.

6. Cut 100 Calories a Day:

A healthy body weight is good for your heart. If you cut 100 calories from your diet each day for a year, you’ll lose 10 pounds. If you are overweight, skip that can of soda, chunk of cheese or serving of mayo.

7. Quit Smoking:

You already know this but … smoking is really, really bad for you. It damages your arteries, increasing your risk for heart attack or stroke. Find a way to kick the habit.