How appropriate that February is “National Heart Month”. While thinking up all of the fun things to do for Valentine’s Day, add some good things for your heart as well. After working with so many families and children over the years we just want to ask everyone to think of something fun that will also help to keep your heart healthy. It is not pleasant to think of the possibility of not being around to watch our children grow. Many heart problems can be avoided or at least reduced by following some healthy guidelines while young, so start now.
Do any of us really need a five pound box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day? Do we need two dozen sugar filled pink cupcakes with extra creamy frosting on top? Okay, maybe a handful of Godiva chocolates and a couple of cupcakes. I can’t go cold turkey on sweets. However, anything we can do to reduce our intake of non nutritional foods and increase the heart healthy diets that doctors recommend has got to help.
Even when going out for that huge five course dinner, try to plan a walk after to help burn off some of the calories. While it would be nice to say we are going to eat healthy all of the time, very few of us mortals have the willpower to pass on a favorite dessert. The best advice that I have heard is to just do the best we can and every day try to do a little better.
Heart disease is still the number one killer of both men and women in this country. Let’s try to work together to come up with ideas to help reduce this deadly disease. Staying healthy is something we owe to ourselves and our children.
Have a very Happy and Healthy Valentine’s Day.