Investing In a Healthy Heart

An excerpt from The American Medical Association Book of Heart Care by Douglas Gasner and Elliot H. McCleary offers the following advice for investing in a healthy heart:

• "Have your cholesterol measured if you are worried about heart disease or if you have a family history of heart disease.

• "Have your blood pressure checked, and take your pills if your doctor prescribes them.

• "Find enough time to exercise.

• "Find time to relax.

• "Eat moderately from a variety of the four food groups: dairy products; grains and cereals; fruits and vegetables; fish, meat and poultry.

• "Go to your physician if you have chest pain or find you are easily or suddenly fatigued.

• "Watch your weight.

• "Seek medical attention if you sense any disturbance in your heart's rhythm.

• "Don't smoke; it robs your heart of oxygen.

• "Don't count on magic cures; medical miracles are few and far apart.

• "Don't believe that it can't happen to you; statistics don't play favorites.

• "Don't ignore your body when there is a change in it; it's trying to tell you something."

Are poor dietary habits resulting in problems of overweight and obesity, a loss of energy or a feeling of always being tired or listless? You will be happy to know that Nutritional and Behavioral Care's Rosalie Schiappacasse MS MSW can help you lose weight and learn a lifestyle essential to weight maintenance and a strong heart.