Show your heart some love this February.
During American Heart Month, make small changes to improve your heart's health and prevent heart disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate approximately 1 in 3 U.S. adults has high blood cholesterol. This can lead to heart disease and stroke. Other risk factors include genetics, gender, age, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and smoking.
According to San Jacinto College's Trenton Denton, the heart -- a muscular organ -- needs exercise.
"A heart-healthy lifestyle involves a healthy diet, healthy weight, and physical activity," said Denton, professor of physical education in the personal trainer program.
He encourages starting with small changes. Take the stairs rather than elevator, park farther from your destination, walk the dog, ride a bicycle, or work in the garden.
Then add on: "Try aerobic exercise five days per week for 30 minutes or more. Monitor your exercise intensity and have a trainer help you establish proper training zones for your ability level," Denton said.
If you already use a fitness center, ask the manager or director to recommend a personal trainer. Or consult online reviews for fitness centers and trainers.
A bonus of exercise is stress relief and even socialization if you invite a friend or join a fitness class.
Exercise and a healthy diet go hand in hand. Denton recommends eating a variety of foods, focusing on. . .
Start today! Little changes show a lot of love for the body's central organ.
Eat Healthy
Need healthy inspiration for your plate? Our culinary arts program gets you started.
Meatless Tacos (courtesy of Chef Michael Schuster, North Campus)
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Vegan Sour Cream
Ingredients:
Instructions:
The San Jacinto College Continuing and Professional Development Community Engagement Division will offer the free Matter of Balance program at the Central Campus this spring (in partnership with Harris County Public Health’s Healthy Aging Program).
To register, attend an info session from 12-1 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 5, at the Central Campus, 8060 Spencer Hwy., Building 1, Room C1.108. This interactive fitness program targets ages 55+ and includes food and prizes:
Learn more by calling 281-476-1893 or emailing community.engagement@sjcd.edu.