February has received a federal annual designation as American Heart Month, which is important because heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. American heart Month is a reminder that for healthy living we can all do something to protect ourselves from heart disease. Among other things, we can also help get the word out so others can be reminded of this menace and how to avoid it. Here are a few specifics about what you can do.
- Eat healthy and watch your weight
Being overweight is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Doctors use a body mass index to determine if you are within a normal weight range. A healthy diet is your first and best defense against many diseases.
- Exercise
The heart is a muscle, and work, done correctly, does help build its strength. Moderate exercise of some kind for 30 minutes a day is recommended for good health.
- Monitor cholesterol and blood pressure
Check cholesterol levels every five years, and blood pressure every year to make certain you are not at dangerous levels.
The best health insurance you can get is to devote yourself to a healthy living lifestyle. Next to that, you should also look into protecting yourself with health insurance from the professionals at Steve Wilk Insurance Agency, serving satisfied clients throughout Illinois. Contact us today.