Back on Track!: Monthly Newsletters

***AMERICAN HEART MONTH REMINDER!***

February is a very special month for many reasons. Not only do we celebrate Valentine's Day, but we also mark National Black History month in February.

But did you also know that February is American Heart Month?

Every year since its congressional approval in 1963, American Heart Month has served to help raise public awareness of heart disease. While most people associate this condition with men, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women.

This month, I encourage each of you to take the time to have your cholesterol and other blood lipids checked with a comprehensive blood lipid panel! This simple test requires a small amount of blood, but reveals important information regarding your levels of good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and your risk factor for developing heart disease. Give your loved ones a gift that may help save their lives, and encourage them to have their levels checked as well.

In addition, here are some simple lifestyle changes that can help lower your risk factor for developing heart disease:

• Limit your intake of sugars
• Limit your intake of sodium/salt
• Choose more whole grains, legumes, fresh produce and low fat dairy products
• Choose lean meat and poultry
• Include fish in your diet
• Exercise portion control
• Become physically active for 30 to 60 minutes a day
• Stop smoking (please!!)
  
• Limit your intake of alcohol

If you would like to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive lipid panel and consulation through our clinic, please call 503-297-4447 to make an appointment for yourself or for someone you love.

Happy American Heart Month to each of you, and be well!

P.S. If you have any friends or family members who you feel could use our other services, please don't hesitate to have them call for a consultation! We'll be sure to take good care of them! If you need more information, a list of our services can be found on our website.