From the Heart: Show Your Cardiovascular System Some Love This Valentine’s Day

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From the Primary Care Network 

Love is in the air and with February being Heart Month, there’s no better time to show your cardiovascular system some love.

Heart disease is the second leading cause of death in Canada – luckily the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation says up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented through lifestyle choices.

Here Are Some Tips for Improving Heart Health:

  • Prioritize a Healthy Diet – Maintaining a heart healthy diet is an important factor in heart health. Navigating all options and information can be challenging. Calgary Foothills PCN has a team of register dietitians and nurses and offers workshops.
  • Set Health Goals – Set achievable health goals with the support of health management nurses. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, manage stress, quit smoking or vaping, and get assistance with access to services for high cholesterol.
  • Focus on Mental Health – Stress can cause the heart to work harder and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. The Calgary Foothills PCN mental health team offers one-on-one counselling and workshops.

Register for free support online at cfpcn.ca. If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your family doctor who can help with your care plan.