JACKSON, Mississippi— Valentine’s Day is around the corner and the Mississippi Department of Health reminds you to keep one particular heart in mind during February.
February is American Heart Month, and MDH is reminding you to love your heart this Valentine’s Day. Kicking the smoking habit, developing a gym habit, and losing weight could all prevent heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States.
If you haven’t made Valentine’s Dinner plans yet, try Mediterranean.
“The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and a healthy amount of olive oil,” says Dr. Evelyn Walker with the Mississippi Department of Health, “the diet is linked to reducing heart disease, cancer, and protecting blood vessels.”
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet, or DASH diet, is another that could potentially save your life.
“One of the mainstays of that diet is that it reduces sodium,” says Walker. It emphasizes potassium, magnesium and other dietary needs.
The DASH diet was designed to address the dietary habits of those already suffering with hypertension. Salt is a primary seasoning for food, but Dr. Walker says there’s other healthy options.
“There’s tons of herbs,” says Walker, “and lemon juice, lime juice, garlic, onion. The options go on.”
Mississippi is one of the worst states in the country for heart disease related deaths. Before making any major changes to your diet or routine, MDH recommends calling your doctor.
