EDITORIAL: For the love of your heart

Feb. 20-- Feb. 20--Just because Valentine's Day is past doesn't mean we don't need to think about our hearts.

February is American Heart Month.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., by far.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases are the top three killers.

In fact, one in four deaths are caused by heart disease, according to the CDC.

In conjunction with American Heart Month, we are touting the importance of making healthy choices, working with doctors and health-care professionals to reduce the risks. The CDC recommends: -- Schedule a visit with a doctor to talk about heart health. Regular checkups are an important part of health management, even if you don't think you're sick. Talk with your doctor and set goals for improving heart health. Be honest with them about your health and habits and don't be afraid to ask questions. -- Add exercise to your daily routine. If you don't currently exercise, start small. Walk 15 minutes a day a few times a week. After a couple of weeks, bump it up to 30 minutes a day a few times a week. -- Quit smoking. If you currently smoke, quitting can cut your risk for heart disease and stroke. Kicking the smoking habit, like starting an exercise routine, is something that's done a step at a time. -- Eat healthy. Eating healthy is one of the surest steps you can take to heart health. Cook heart healthy meals at home at least three times a week and reduce the sodium content of your recipes. -- Take prescribed medication. Talk with your doctor about high blood pressure and cholesterol medications. Take any prescribed medications on time as directed. If any side effects develop, contact your doctor for help.

Take the time this year to develop healthy habits and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Staying healthy -- living with a heart healthy lifestyle each day -- is much easier than "getting healthy" and overcoming a lifetime of bad habits.

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