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With the holidays behind us I am reminded that February is Heart Health Month. Heart disease is a big concern for many. Fortunately with a good diet, exercise and supplements we can strengthen our hearts and flush out our arteries.
Below you can find some tips for heart health, but first:
What are the warning signs of a heart attack?
- Discomfort in the chest, jaw, neck, back, shoulder or arm
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea, vomiting
- Fatigue, weakness
- Feelings of anxiety
**Women's symptoms are often vague and easily overlooked
What can we do?
One key thing is to increase our activity level. Pick up a pedometer and count the number of steps you are taking on a daily basis. If it is under 15,000, it might be time to start walking more.
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Steps/Day
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Activity Index
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< 5000
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Sedentary
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5000 – 7499
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Low active
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7500 – 9000
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Somewhat active
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> 10,000
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Active
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> 12,500
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Highly active
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As always, our diet is an important mediator of our health. Try these simple tips:
- Eat a handful of berries everyday
- Eat 10-15 raw, unsalted almonds every day
- Use olive oil in your salads
- Increase your fish oil intake or consider a fish oil supplement
- Eat plenty of vegetables
For more on heart health visit Essence of Health or follow them in real time via Twitter
About Dr. Mubina Jiwa
Dr. Mubina Jiwa is a member of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and the director of Essence of Health. Dr. Jiwa is also an Assistant Professor at The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.
Soci Sci Med 2001; 52:1565 JAMA 1999; 281:901 Am J Criti Care 1998; 7:175
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