In 2011, the Department of Health and Human Serviceslaunched the Million HeartsTM initiative with the aim of preventing 1 million heart attacks and strokes by 2017. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cardiovascular disease kills one in three Americans, and the main risk factors for the disease—smoking, being overweight, high blood pressure and cholesterol—are within a person’s control. By educating people about ways to reduce their risk and providing targeted health care for those in the high risk category, Million HeartsTM is working towards reducing the burden cardiovascular disease has on individuals and the health care system.
A healthy diet is key to managing your blood pressure. Reducing your intake of sodium and saturated and trans fats while increasing the amount of fiber and whole grains you eat can go a long way towards preventing heart disease. Preparing meals at home let’s you control the ingredients and ultimately gives you a better handle on your health. Visit the Million HeartsTM Healthy Eating & Lifestyle Resource Center for recipe ideas and tips on how to manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Being proactive about your health and keeping your cholesterol, blood pressure and weight in check are important steps in the fight against cardiovascular disease!
For more information about the initiative, visit Million HeartsTM
For more information about cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes, visit the CDC’s Heart Disease Home Page.
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