health

How to Minimize Holiday Stress

6 days ago

The holiday season is special, memorable, and fun – but it can also be busy, demanding, and tense. The impact of stress on heart health has been well documented, so it’s important to do what you can to minimize holiday stress. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool to maintain perspective and stay calm through the chaos. We have a few tips, which we’ll share below.

holiday stress — photo credit: @julia-volk accessed 11/29/21 via CC0

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a practice of noticing when you get distracted – by to-dos, past or future events, news or other events – and bringing your attention to the present. It’s been shown to decrease stress and increase calm, and it can make your holidays more enjoyable.

Use Mindfulness to Minimize Holiday Stress

Here are four tips from Johns Hopkins on staying mindful this holiday season

Recognize What Really Matters: As you’re shopping, wrapping, baking or cooking, try to stay present and connected to the season. Waiting in line or stuck in traffic? Use those moments to take a deep breath and reflect.
Let Good be Good Enough: We want everything to be perfect at the holidays, but that’s an unrealistic expectation. Acknowledge that imperfection is normal and inevitable.
Respond to Stressors with Kindness: Understand that most people are stressed during the holidays, and extend kindness whenever possible.

One of the best ways to ensure that those you love stay healthy all season long is to learn CPR. HeartCert offers a wide variety of CPR and first aid training courses, both virtually and in person. Find a training center near you at https://heartcertcpr.com/locations/.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV and more, in Minnesota and throughout the United States.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Sugary Drinks Could Harm Heart Health

4 weeks ago

If you’re working to lower the amount of sugar in your diet, don’t overlook your beverages. Nearly half of all added sugars consumed in the average American diet come in the form of sugar-sweetened beverages. The link between sugary drinks and heart disease has long been known, but new research is showing just how close that link is.

How Sugary Drinks Raise Heart Disease Risk

In an observational study of 106,000 women with an average age of 52, researchers found a 20% greater likelihood of cardiovascular disease in those who consumed one or more sugar-sweetened drinks per day. Interestingly, fruit drinks with added sugar correlated to a 42% greater likelihood of disease.

There are several ways in which sugary drinks may increase heart disease risk. Elevated levels of sugar and insulin in the blood can lead to inflammation, insulin resistance, diabetes and high cholesterol. High blood sugar can also cause an increased appetite, weight gain and obesity. All of these are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

What’s the best way to reduce the risk of heart disease from sugar-sweetened beverages? Drink less of them! Start with replacing just one per day with water or a drink with no added sugar (staying away from artificial sweeteners, if possible). Consider infusing fruit in water for added flavor and health benefits.

Want to do more to protect the hearts of those you love? Learn CPR! Sign up for a CPR training course with HeartCert CPR. We offer virtual, hybrid, and in-person courses to fit your busy schedule.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV and more, in Minnesota and throughout the United States.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

How to Stay Hydrated – and Why It’s Critical for Heart Health

4 months ago

It’s been a hot, dry summer in Minnesota and across much of the country. Whether you’re exercising, playing or dining outdoors, or just sitting in the sun, it’s easy to get dehydrated without even knowing it. But staying well-hydrated is important for your heart and health.

photo credit: @enginakyurt accessed 8/6/21 via CC0

Here are a few tips from the American Heart Association on maintaining good hydration, no matter the weather.

The Importance of Good Hydration

When your body is sufficiently hydrated, the heart is more easily able to pump blood. Essentially, your heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Your muscles are also able to work more efficiently.

Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration

The amount of water a person needs varies based on climate, clothing, body composition, medical conditions, and activity level. Therefore, it can be difficult to tell when you’re dehydrated until you begin suffering adverse effects.

To catch dehydration before it causes harm, pay attention to your thirst level. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. The color of your urine is a good indicator as well. If it’s dark, that’s a sign to drink more fluids.

How to Stay Hydrated

Drink water before and during exercise or time outside, not just when you’re done.
Drink electrolyte drinks during high-intensity activities (but watch out for added sugar)
Eat foods containing water, such as fruit
Avoid fruit juices or soda, as they can upset the stomach if you’re dehydrated
Avoid coffee and other drinks containing caffeine, as they can dehydrate you further

What’s the best way to protect the hearts of those you love? By registering for a CPR course!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Small Bursts of Activity Help the Heart

6 months ago

Experts have long known that physical activity is the best and easiest way to prevent heart disease. But new research has found that exercising in short bursts, or simply moving more throughout the day, can have similar positive effects as longer, more strenuous exercise sessions.

In the new study, researchers followed 17,000 women over the age of 60 for six years, using data from step counters or fitness trackers to monitor physical activity levels. They found that each initial increase of 1,000 steps per day in smaller bursts of activity was associated with a 28% decrease in death. To compare, participants who took more than 2,000 steps at one time during the day had a 32% decrease in death.

That amounts to just a 4% difference in death between the participants who moved in smaller increments versus those who moved a lot at once. Researchers say there is real evidence that moving in any amount benefits the heart and overall health. If strenuous, lengthy exercise sessions are not possible for any reason, focus on total overall physical activity. Not only is this more feasible for busy and older people, but it’s much less intimidating.

Ways to Fit in Small Bursts of Activity

Here are just a few of the many ways to add more small bursts of movement to your daily routine:

Go for walks – with the dog, after lunch, or to run errands near home.
Do bodyweight exercises, like squats or calf raises, while you brush your teeth, do dishes, or work at a standing desk.
Stand up and do a few sets of jumping jacks every hour.
Go up or down a floor to use the bathroom.
Park farther away – or at the opposite end of the parking lot!
Hang laundry outside instead of using the dryer.
When grocery shopping, take a few laps around the perimeter before getting out your list.
Rake and bag the leaves instead of leaf-blowing.

Study Limitations

Researchers caution that more research is needed on different demographic groups to determine if the study’s results are far-reaching. In the meantime, why not go out for a walk?

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

The Link Between Heart Health and Mental Health

8 months ago

The connection between the heart and the brain has long been explored, explained, and romanticized. Now, researchers say that the brain and heart are connected in a very real way, with new evidence of the link between heart health and mental health.

How Does Mental Health Affect The Heart?

According to the American Heart Association, research shows that good mental health can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve overall heart health. On the flip side, poor mental well-being can increase the risk of heart disease.

This could be explained by the results of a certain mental state. For example, people with a more optimistic outlook on life tend to engage in healthier behaviors, such as exercise and sleep. However, researchers also point out the link between stress and heart health, which has been well-documented.

Regardless of the cause of the mental and heart health link, experts urge primary care doctors and cardiologists to be aware of the risks and treat patients accordingly.

Doctors Should Include Mental Health Screening in Routine Visits

To identify at-risk patients, researchers are advocating for mental health screenings to be made part of regular check-ups. This should be prioritized for patients with heart disease or risk factors. Doctors should also be well-versed in possible interventions, such as medications or talk therapy, for patients who are struggling.

How to Boost Mental Health for the Good of the Heart

The good news? Many of the tactics recommended to improve heart health will also benefit mental well-being. These include healthy eating, quality sleep, exercise, minimizing alcohol, and maintaining social connections.

What’s the best way to protect the hearts of those around you? Take a virtual CPR training course!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

How Closely Should You Track Your Heart Rate?

9 months ago

With the increasing popularity of smart watches and fitness trackers, more people are keeping a close eye on their heart rate. And while it’s generally good to track health metrics, experts say that monitoring your heart rate too closely could actually have negative health effects.

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

A normal resting heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute (BPM). But that number fluctuates significantly throughout the day, as we engage in our normal daily activities. So continually tracking your rate won’t actually do much good – and could cause you to become obsessed in an unhealthy way.

Heart Rate Matters, But Other Metrics Matter More

That’s not to say that it doesn’t matter. According to the American Heart Association, studies have shown a 16% increase in risk of death for every 10 BPM increase in resting heart rate. But other heart disease risk factors, such as blood pressure, activity level, weight, and whether a person smokes, are more determinative, doctors say.

This is why it’s good to track heart rate along with all of those other metrics, and with your specific risk factors in mind. Experts recommend checking your heart rate and blood pressure once per month. Talk to your doctor to determine what’s normal for you, so you can know if your rate is out of range.

A heart rate that’s too fast or too slow can indicate an issue or illness, and may need to be corrected with medication or a device like a pacemaker. But without consulting your doctor, there’s no reason to obsess over it.

What’s the best way to protect the hearts of those around you? Take a CPR training course!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Five Ways to Become More Resilient (and Improve Heart Health)

11 months ago

As we close the door on 2020, we’re reflecting on a long and difficult year. Whether you dealt with job loss, isolation, increased childcare demands, health issues, or the loss of a family member or friend, 2020 was incredibly hard for so many reasons. The coming year holds more hope, but the next few months will continue to challenge us. This is why it’s a good time to work on becoming more resilient – for the good of both your physical and mental health.

resilient — photo credit: @jake__sapp accessed 1/5/21 via CC0

What is Resilience?

According to the American Heart Association, resilience is defined as the ability to not only withstand stress and increasing demands, but also to bounce back and grow from them. If that seems impossible, there’s good news: resilience is not a fixed trait. It’s actually a set of skills that can be taught, learned and nurtured.

Why is Resilience Important?

Of course, resilience is important for mental health and well-being. But there are physical health benefits as well. Studies have shown that resilience lowers stress, which in turn lessens the impact of chronic health conditions that are caused by stress, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

How to Become More Resilient

Reflect: Think about problems you’ve overcome in the past. Recall the resources you used to get through those tough times, and ask for help if you need it.
Care: Take good care of your physical and mental health. Eat nutritious meals, get good sleep, move your body, and nurture social connections.
Cultivate Gratitude: It can be difficult to focus on the good when life feels hard. Take a few minutes to write down one or two good things that happened that day, even if they’re as simple as seeing a sunset or hearing your kids laugh.
Reach Out: You don’t need to go about life’s challenges alone. Ask for help and find someone to talk to.
Repeat: You won’t become more resilient overnight. Practice resilience every day, and it will build over time.

Ready to take better care of the hearts of those around you? Register for a virtual CPR class.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Maintain Social Connections for Heart Health

12 months ago

Normally, December is a month of parties, celebrations, and quality time with family and friends. But as the pandemic continues to spread throughout Minnesota, it appears that this will be a holiday season like no other. Most – if not all – holiday gatherings will have to be downsized or cancelled, and the social contact we rely on to get us through the cold and dark days of winter will not be available.

Experts say that it’s more important than ever to maintain those vital social connections throughout the holiday season. Not only is it beneficial for mental well-being, but it could have a big impact on heart health as well.

How Social Connections Boost Health

According to the American Heart Association, there is proven evidence of the link between poor social relationships and negative health impacts. Following a 2010 analysis of nearly 150 studies involving more than 300,000 people, experts concluded that loneliness and smoking had similar mortality risk factors. Loneliness was even found to be more harmful than obesity.

How to Maintain Social Connections While Physically Distant

After 9+ months of isolation, all the things we did to stay connected in the early part of the pandemic – Zoom game nights and happy hours, sending letters, text chains – are no longer quite as fun. Yet any efforts to maintain relationships, even if it’s just a quick call or check-in, will have positive benefits.

In addition, take the time to focus inward. Focus on gratitude for the people and things in your life. Nurture your relationships with the people in your immediate family. Take action to minimize stress. And, when it’s safe to gather once again, show your friends and loved ones how grateful you are that they remain in your life.

Did you know that most cardiac arrests occur in the home? That’s why it’s so important to learn CPR. HeartCert is offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe. Contact us to learn more.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications! Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Quality Sleep Can Protect Against Heart Disease

1 year ago

Getting a good night of sleep has many benefits to both physical and mental health. It can help with weight loss, mental sharpness, mood, skin health, and more. In addition, sleep can also have a direct impact on heart health and heart disease risk. But getting quality sleep is a struggle for many people.

In a recent study, researchers found that adults who got sufficient, quality sleep had fewer early signs of heart disease than those who slept either too little or too much. People who slept five or fewer hours per night had 50 percent more calcium in their coronary arteries than those who got seven hours of sleep. On the flip side, people who slept nine or more hours per night had 70 percent more coronary calcium than those who slept seven hours.

Aim for Quality Sleep

Study participants who had restless or disturbed sleep were found to have 20 percent more coronary calcium than those who got restful sleep. In fact, researchers believe quality may be more important than quantity in determining sleep’s impact on heart health.

How does irregular sleep affect heart health? Click here to learn more.

How To Get Better Sleep

If you’ve had trouble getting enough quality sleep, here are a few tips:

Don’t look at any screens – including your phone – for at least one hour before bedtime
Keep your bedroom cool
Play white noise
Go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on the weekend
Have a high-protein, low-sugar snack before bedtime

Did you know? Most heart attacks and cardiac arrests occur in the home. That’s why it’s so vitally important to learn CPR. Ready to learn? HeartCert is here to help. We’re offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe. Contact us to learn more.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications! Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in February 2018.

How to Keep Kids Moving During Distance Learning

1 year ago

Physical movement has always been important for children, but that is even more true now, as distance learning has kept kids indoors and on screens. With the school year underway and winter fast approaching, parents are thinking about how to keep their kids healthy and happy in the coming months. The American Heart Association shared some insight and tips on encouraging physical activity while kids are learning from home.

What’s one easy way to protect your family’s health while staying at home? Learn CPR and first aid! HeartCert CPR is offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe.

The Benefits of Physical Activity For Distance Learners

distance learning — photo credit: @ketut-subiyanto accessed 10/3/20 via CC0

Physical activity is important for people of all ages. Regular physical movement strengthens heart muscle strength, improves artery health, and lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. It releases endorphins that boost mental health and well-being, which is especially important as we navigate these difficult and stressful times.

In addition, physical activity helps the brain perform better, and has been shown to boost academic performance. It helps kids focus and be more productive in learning.

How to Keep Kids Moving in Distance Learning

Federal guidelines recommend that children and teenagers get at least one hour of robust physical activity every day. But this doesn’t mean that you need to block out an hour for exercise during your already busy days at home.

Find ways to adapt distance learning lessons to include movement, even if it’s just asking students to stand up, move around, and come sit back down. Make activity a family affair. Go for a walk or bike ride together, or take 5 minutes for a dance break. It will benefit everyone. (If you’re looking for ways to make your family more heart-healthy, check out this blog post.)

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications! Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Four Numbers to Track for Heart Health

1 year ago

When it comes to heart health, it’s important to be aware of risk factors and health indicators long before a problem arises. But the sheer volume of information around preventative measures can be overwhelming. To keep it simple, here are four basic metrics that the American Heart Association recommends tracking on a regular basis. Doing so can help you identify and prevent a heart attack or similar issue down the road.

Blood Pressure

If you track just one measure of heart health, it should be blood pressure, experts say. An elevated blood pressure can have a significant impact on your heart. Talk to your doctor to understand your current blood pressure, and to determine a blood pressure goal. If you track blood pressure at home, make sure you’re getting accurate readings, and continue to see your doctor regularly.

Cholesterol

Because there are different types of cholesterol with different effects on heart health, it’s important to get a reading and understanding from your doctor. Continue to monitor cholesterol with regular blood tests.

Blood Sugar

Blood sugar is important because, when elevated, it’s an early sign of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can lead to heart disease or stroke. Regularly monitoring blood sugar can alert you of a diabetes risk early, and give you time to make dietary changes.

Sleep

It can be tough to get enough sleep, but it’s important. Adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night – too much or too little can be harmful for your heart. The good news is that sleep is relatively easy to monitor and track, either through a wearable tracker or simply by writing down the number of hours you sleep every night.

What’s one additional way to protect the hearts of those around you? Learn CPR!

HeartCert CPR is offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe. Contact us to learn more.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout greater Minnesota. HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

How to Care For Your Heart During Allergy Season

2 years ago

Spring is here in Minnesota, bringing warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and pollen in the air. This year, as the Coronavirus pandemic spreads, every sneeze or cough seems like cause for alarm. But there are key differences between allergy symptoms and those of COVID-19.

Seasonal allergies generally cause a runny nose, itchy eyes and throat, sneezing and a cough. The main indicator of COVID-19 is a fever. So if you are experiencing allergy symptoms with no fever, rest assured that you are likely not at risk (but when in doubt, experts advise staying home and self-isolating).

Even though spring allergy symptoms are not cause for major concern in this heightened time, it’s still important for allergy sufferers to be aware and take good care of their health. This is especially true for heart disease patients, according to the American Heart Association.

Avoid OTC Allergy Medication

Over-the-counter decongestants are stimulants. They can increase heart rate and raise blood pressure, which is especially harmful for people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Antihistamines may be a better option. However, it’s always best to check with your doctor before taking an over-the-counter medication.

Tips for Minimizing Symptoms

The best way to avoid the impacts of allergies is to keep pollen at bay as much as possible. Keep doors and windows closed, and run the air conditioner for temperature control. After spending time outside, change out of your clothes and take a shower.

Protect the hearts of those around you by taking a CPR/AED course at one of HeartCert CPR’s convenient Minnesota locations. Register for a course today.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Is Heart Attack Risk Higher in Winter?

2 years ago

Here in Minnesota, we’re no strangers to the extremes of winter weather. From blizzards to ice to subzero temperatures, we know how to deal with whatever comes our way. But are we taking good care of our heart and health during these cold winter months? Maybe not.

According to the American Heart Association, it isn’t just the exertion of shoveling show that can harm the heart. There are several additional factors that have been shown to impact heart health – and they affect people all over the world, not just in cold weather climates like Minnesota.

Cold Temperatures

When you step outside into cold weather, the temperature makes arteries constrict, decreasing blood flow and the delivery of oxygen. Cold weather also increases the formation of blood clots.

Flu Season

The flu spreads quickly during the winter months. Studies have found an increase in heart attacks after people come down with the flu.

Indoor Pollution

Wood-burning fireplaces create coziness and warmth. But they also significantly increase indoor air pollution, which can harm the heart.

Shorter Days

A lack of sunshine means a deficiency in vitamin D for many people. Seasonal Affective Disorder can lead to depression, which in turn can raise the risk of cardiac disease. In addition, it can be tough to find time or motivation to get out and exercise when the daylight hours are short.

Holiday Stressors

Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years and Valentine’s Day – these are all lovely celebrations, but they can be immensely stressful. Because stress impacts heart health, the holiday season has been found to raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Snow

Shoveling. Need we say more?

Because many of these winter heart stressors are unavoidable, it’s even more important to take good care of your health during the colder months. Eat a healthy diet, stay active, take time for self-care, get enough sleep, and, of course, learn CPR!

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Eat Low-Cholesterol Food for Better Heart Health

2 years ago

It has long been known that cholesterol is a major contributor to heart and vascular disease. Now, a new advisory has been issued by the American Heart Association, urging people to eat foods that are naturally lower in cholesterol and saturated fat.

Focus on Diet, Not a Number

You might be asking: isn’t this the same advice we’ve been getting from doctors and researchers for decades? Yes, but with one significant difference. Experts no longer support a specific numerical limit on cholesterol. Rather, the advisory encourages a diet of naturally low-cholesterol foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Perhaps more importantly, saturated fats from full-fat dairy and meat, as well as salt, sugar and processed foods, should be avoided.

Looking for ways to reduce dietary sodium? Read our blog post!

There are a few caveats. Small amounts of specific high-cholesterol foods are safe to consume. This includes eggs (about one per day) or an equivalent of lean meat or protein.

Why is Cholesterol Harmful?

Some cholesterol is essential for the body to function. However, when too much saturated fat is consumed, an excess of cholesterol can build up in the blood. This can cause deposits to form in the arteries, potentially blocking blood flow and leading to heart attack or stroke.

How to Limit Cholesterol Intake

Experts recommend a Mediterranean-style diet, which traditionally focus on fresh produce, whole grains and healthy fats. Not sure where to start? Check out our blog post with heart-healthy eating tips.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Be a More Heart Healthy Family in the New Year

2 years ago

Families today are busy. With work and school, sports and social outings, it can feel impossible to find time for healthy living. If, like many, you’re thinking about new years resolutions, we have a few tips on how to become a more heart healthy family in 2020 – and beyond.

heart healthy family — photo credit: @panditwiguna accessed 12/04/19 via CC0

Identify Opportunities for Activity – In Advance

Look at the days or weeks ahead, comparing all family members’ obligations, and schedule a few 30-minute activity sessions. Put them on everyone’s calendar!

What to do during those 30 minutes? Go for a walk or a bike ride, visit the park, turn on a yoga video, or just have a dance party in the kitchen! Keep it simple, laid-back and fun.

Simplify the Schedule

If you can’t find any time for activity, it’s time to take a closer look at the family schedule. Are there any activities that can be put on hold? Any social gatherings that can be missed? An overscheduled family is usually a stressed family, which is also bad for the heart. Try to find ways to slow down.

Meal Plan and Prep

It’s easy to reach for the most convenient option after a long day at work. Planning for meals in advance is key to putting healthy dinners on the table. Set yourself up for success by taking an hour or two on the weekend to make a plan and grocery shop. You can also meal prep – cut up veggies, group canned goods and spices together – to make cooking even faster and easier.

Make Health a Shared Responsibility

Kids can – and should – help you make some of these lifestyle changes. Ask them for help meal planning and grocery shopping, or cooking if they’re old enough. Let them plan a 30-minute activity session. If all members of the family are involved and invested, you’ll have a more heart healthy family in no time!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PAL, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We now offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

health

What is Mindfulness?

Use Mindfulness to Minimize Holiday Stress

How Sugary Drinks Raise Heart Disease Risk

The Importance of Good Hydration

Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration

How to Stay Hydrated

Ways to Fit in Small Bursts of Activity

Study Limitations

How Does Mental Health Affect The Heart?

Doctors Should Include Mental Health Screening in Routine Visits

How to Boost Mental Health for the Good of the Heart

Heart Rate Matters, But Other Metrics Matter More

What’s the best way to protect the hearts of those around you? Take a CPR training course!

What is Resilience?

Why is Resilience Important?

How to Become More Resilient

How Social Connections Boost Health

How to Maintain Social Connections While Physically Distant

Aim for Quality Sleep

How To Get Better Sleep

The Benefits of Physical Activity For Distance Learners

How to Keep Kids Moving in Distance Learning

Blood Pressure

Cholesterol

Blood Sugar

Sleep

What’s one additional way to protect the hearts of those around you? Learn CPR!

Avoid OTC Allergy Medication

Tips for Minimizing Symptoms

Cold Temperatures

Flu Season

Indoor Pollution

Shorter Days

Holiday Stressors

Snow

Focus on Diet, Not a Number

Why is Cholesterol Harmful?

How to Limit Cholesterol Intake

Identify Opportunities for Activity – In Advance

Simplify the Schedule

Meal Plan and Prep

Make Health a Shared Responsibility

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