Advocates Get to the Heart of the Matter!

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February is American Heart Month, a time to spotlight the importance of cardiovascular health and take steps to reduce the risks of heart disease—the leading cause of death in the U.S. Each year, the American Heart Association encourages individuals, families, and communities to focus on heart-healthy habits, such as eating nutritious foods, staying active, managing stress, and prioritizing regular checkups.

Your Partner in Heart Health: How Healthcare Advocates Provide Personalized Support

Independent healthcare advocates can play a key role in managing and improving heart health. These professionals can help you navigate your healthcare journey by coordinating care, explaining treatment plans, and ensuring you understand the importance of key health metrics like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Advocates also assist in connecting you with community resources, such as fitness programs or healthy eating initiatives, and provide personalized strategies to meet heart health goals.

If you or a loved one could benefit from personalized support, consider reaching out to us. Our team of experienced professional advocates specializes in helping people take control of their health by providing guidance, education, and access to the resources needed to achieve better outcomes. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition like heart disease or want help creating a proactive care plan, we are here to help.

Heart Health Tips to Take to Heart

Here are some simple, effective tips from the American Heart Association to protect your heart:

  • Know your numbers: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI regularly.
  • Eat smart: Choose a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
  • Get active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, like brisk walking or cycling.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk of heart disease—take steps to quit today.
  • Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to keep stress levels in check.
  • Sleep well: Prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, as poor sleep can impact your heart health.

This year’s American Heart Month theme emphasizes taking control of your heart health by knowing your numbers and making informed decisions. Whether it’s through support from healthcare advocates or personal efforts, small, consistent steps can lead to big improvements. Together, we can make February a month of inspiration and heart-healthy change.

For tips and tools, visit heart.org or learn more about healthcare advocacy at umbrahealthadvocacy.com.