Heart to heart

This past weekend I have been in bed sick with the flu or some severe cold that has left me exhausted, in pain, dehydrated, and weak. One of the things I was able to do, however, is to sit up in bed and complete my online CPR and AED training. In doing so I came across an interesting fact: The Red Cross's online training included a section on heart attack. One of the first notes I have is: "Build up on materials on inner walls of coronary arteries reduces blood flow to the heart and may cause a heart attack. Coronary artery disease (also called coronary heart disease) is the leading cause of heart attack and cardiac arrest." Wow, the #1 cause! The CDC's website goes further into saying that "heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States." Pretty bold. Now, many of you may be familiar with these facts, but then, why ignore it? If you're ready to face the facts, then here are some ways you can help reduce your risk of goin' out like that:

Prevent and control high blood cholesterol

High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease. Preventing and treating high blood cholesterol includes eating a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber, keeping a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise. (cited from CDC website)
*Here are some tips--try to substitute olive oil or a low-fat, no cholesterol spread like Brummel & Brown. Cut down on high-fat meats, deep-fried foods, and pastries.
*Here's a fact-the egg yolk is the #1 source of cholesterol in the every day diet. Cut it out--substitute "egg-beaters" or "real eggs" which are 99%egg white products that make great omelettes and scrambled eggs and you can use these in baking and other recipes without the fat and cholesterol.

Remember, small changes lead to great results as no changes may lead to big regrets. Click on the title of this to visit the CDC's website and educate yourself. Take care of your heart and your health. Thanks for reading!