February marks American Heart Month, a time to focus on raising awareness about heart disease and how to prevent it. With heart disease being one of the leading causes of death, it’s important to take action and prioritize your heart health. At AFC Urgent Care Natick, we’re here to guide you through some simple yet impactful ways to celebrate American Heart Month and take care of your heart.
1. Get Your Heart Screened Regularly
One of the best ways to stay on top of your heart health is by scheduling regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. These simple tests can help identify potential problems before they become serious. At AFC Urgent Care Natick, we offer walk-in services for blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, making it easy for you to stay informed about your heart health.
Early detection is key to preventing heart disease, so make it a habit to get checked regularly and discuss your results with a healthcare professional.
2. Eat More Heart-Healthy Foods
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet plays a significant role in keeping your heart healthy. Heart-healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain optimal cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Try incorporating foods like salmon, walnuts, and leafy greens into your meals—they are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that support heart health.
Cutting back on processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats can also lower your risk of developing heart disease. Focus on clean, whole foods to fuel your body and protect your heart.
3. Stay Active and Get Moving
Physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart. Regular exercise helps strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, and reduce stress. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, whether it’s walking, cycling, or swimming.
Exercise also helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raises good cholesterol (HDL), which contributes to better overall heart health. Plus, staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight, another important factor in reducing your risk of heart disease.
4. Manage Stress and Improve Mental Health
Stress can have a negative impact on your heart, raising blood pressure and contributing to unhealthy habits like overeating or smoking. During American Heart Month, it’s important to focus on stress management. Try activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce tension and calm your mind.
Making time for hobbies you enjoy, connecting with loved ones, and taking breaks from your daily routine are all effective ways to keep stress in check. A healthy heart isn’t just about physical health—it’s also about maintaining a balanced mental state.
5. Know Your Family History and Risk Factors
Your family history plays a big role in your heart health. If heart disease runs in your family, it’s even more important to take steps toward prevention. Be proactive about understanding your family’s medical history and share this information with your healthcare provider.
At AFC Urgent Care Natick, we can help you assess your heart health, discuss your risk factors, and create a plan to reduce your risk. We’re here to provide resources and support, so you can make informed decisions about your health.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Natick for Heart Health Services
At AFC Urgent Care Natick, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy heart. We’re open 7 days a week, offering walk-in services for your convenience. You can also reserve your spot online, ensuring a faster visit. We accept most insurance plans and provide an easy-to-use online payment system to make your experience hassle-free.
Whether you need a routine heart screening or advice on how to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
