Historically, cardiovascular disease (CVD) was considered a man's disease. Today, we see evidence that CVD is impacting the lives of our mothers, sisters, wives and girlfriends.
Did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death for Canadian women over 55?
Women are also more likely to die from a heart attack or stroke. The risk of heart disease increases once women reach menopause, but it is never too early to make controllable lifestyle changes that will help reduce other risk factors.
1. Quit Smoking:
Smoking is responsible for at least 14% of all heart disease and stroke deaths.
2. Get Active:
Health experts estimate that sedentary individuals who adopt regular physical activity into their lives can reduce heart attack risk by 35 to 55%.
3. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight:
Studies show being overweight or obese increases the risk of CVD.
4. Get Regular Check-Ups:
Your family health practitioners should be part of the prevention strategy.
5. Find Ways to De-Stress:
Research shows links between stress and increased incidence of heart disease in women.
6. Watch What you Eat:
Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is one of the best things you can do to improve your overall health. Avoid foods high in fat and sodium and instead choose good-for-you foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meats and legumes.
Summer Fresh makes those choices easy with their wide selection of great tasting, nutritious items, such as:
• Hummus (Hummus Mini Dippers can fill a mid-afternoon hunger gap.)
• Bean and Grain Salads (Multi-grain Salad with satisfying bulgur, quinoa and barley provides a hearty lunchtime option.)
• Dips (New Light Artichoke & Asiago Dip with 50% less fat, lots of taste and no guilt!)
References:
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
Public Health Agency of Canada
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
