9 tips to keep yourself healthy during American Heart Month

ORLANDO, Fla. — This month is known for love and hearts, but taking care of your heart health is essential.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

February is recognized as American Heart Month.

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has the following tips to keep your heart healthy:

Eat clean.

Choose fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds and whole foods.

Read nutrition labels.

Carefully looking at nutritional facts can help you understand what foods will be the best for you.

Read: National Wear Red Day for women’s heart health

Stop smoking tobacco.

According to the American Heart Association, inhaled nicotine is about a third of all deaths from heart disease.

Be active.

Adults should exercise for 2.5 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of intense physical activity per week. Children should have 60 minutes each day.

Read: Orange County schools expand lifesaving heart exam program

Strive for a good night’s sleep.

Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Children require a different number of hours depending on age:

10-16 hours for ages five and younger, including naps

9-12 hours for ages 6 to 12

8-10 hours for ages 13 to 18

Manage weight.

Speak to a healthcare provider about what weight you should maintain and what this means for your lifestyle.

Control cholesterol.

High levels of cholesterol can lead to heart disease.

Read: Damar Hamlin starts #3forHeart CPR; challenges LeBron James, Tom Brady, Michelle Obama

Manage blood sugar.

Most food becomes glucose, or blood sugar, that we use as energy; high levels can damage your heart over time.

Manage blood pressure.

Keeping a good blood pressure level can help keep you healthier for longer. Manage stress and talk to a healthcare professional.

The American Heart Association said that following these tips will lower the risk of heart disease, stroke and other health problems.

Watch this video below about the symptoms of a heart attack:

Symptoms of a heart attack Symptoms of a heart attack (NCD)

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2023 Cox Media Group