In case you haven't heart: American comedian and actress Rosie O'Donnell recently suffered a heart attack. Although she's on the road to recovery, heart health is a very serious matter. We talk about it all month in February, during Heart Health Month, but a heart attack can happen any day of the year and heart attack prevention is very important.
Luckily, we've been writing about heart disease prevention from the very beginning of Mamás Latinas. It's definitely a topic that's very close to my heart (no pun intended) since my grandfather died of a heart attack. Besides that, though, I know how much diet can affect your chances of a heart attack—and just how important it is to know all of your risks and the symptoms. Worried about getting healthier, too? Well, here are 8 ways you can help prevent a heart attack.
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How do you take care of your heart? What's the hardest tip for you to implement? Share with us in the comments below!
Recognize Your Risk
A study earlier this year, a study came out saying that age, gender and ethnicity have nothing to do with heart attacks. Well, I called BS on that ruling since being a Latina IS a risk factor for heart disease and it's important to know what that means (yes, our fattening food isn't helping).
Known Women's Heart Attack Symptoms
Did you know that women's heart attack symptoms actually work very differently than men? With 2 out of 5 women not experiencing any chest pain, it's important to memorize the heart attack symptoms every Latina needs to know so that, should something happen, you're well prepared.
Quit Drinking (Diet) Soda
I'm a pretty serious diet soda addict but, after a study revealed that drinking diet soda increased your risk of heart attack or stroke, I quit diet soda for Heart Health Month and am now finding myself needing to go back to that better habit. Seriously, calories saved but heart in danger? No thanks!
Embrace Optimism
It might sound crazy but being a positive-outlook kind of person is actually good for your heart! Looking on the bright side of things, instead of focusing on anger, depression or anxiety, has been proven to be good for your ticker since stress from negative emotions leads to artery damage.
Have That Shot of Tequila!
Yes, seriously, a tequila shot can save your life! Don't believe me? Well, drinking alcohol with moderation (that's ANY kind of alcohol, be it red wine or a shot of your favorite liquor) drops your risk of heart disease by 25% and is better than not drinking all week and then going all out one night.
Cut Out the Salt
Sugar may be just as addicting as cocaine but it's salt that's the #1 key to save your heart: by cutting it out, I mean! It would be pretty imposible to cut it ALL out, though, which is why I work on 3 ways to cut back: going for sea salt instead of table salt, using fresh or frozen ingredients only and buying low-sodium products.
Jog to Live Longer
Even though I'm not a very good runner, recent news that jogging can extend your life by 6 years (thanks to the heart health benefits of regular, moderate exercise) has gotten me to lace up my shoes more often than not. Even just 20 minutes of the activity can be a great boost in for your longetivity!
Not Too Much Red Meat!
We Latinos may love our red meat but it is DEFINITELY one of the major reasons why heart disease is an issue in our community. And yes, red meat will kill you eventually since a daily serving raises the risk of heart disease AND cancer. Instead, why not try some fish and just do red meat for special occasions?
