Don't lose "heart" as February comes to an end 

Dr. Minar Chhetry

Heart Month may be coming to a close, but cardiovascular disease remains the leading national cause of death for men and women. Because many of these deaths are preventable, Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Sparta urges you to keep your cardiovascular health top of mind. 

Dr. Minar Chhetry regularly sees patients right here in Sparta, and, recognizing that knowledge is power, he is passionate about teaching the principles of good heart health. Here are a few fast facts from Dr. Chhetry:

1) It's important to learn your personal risk factors for heart disease. While some factors are non-modifiable, like age and family history, there are plenty of factors that you have the power to influence. These include your diet, level of physical activity, and smoking cessation. A skilled and caring physician can also help you with other factors, including management of your weight, cholesterol level, and blood pressure. 

2) Don't let myths discourage or deter you. One such myth is that you don't need to check your cholesterol until you reach middle age. That's completely untrue: in fact, all adults over the age of 20 should get their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years.   

3) Most of us know intellectually how to eat healthier, but it can be so hard to put that knowledge into daily practice. Here are a few pointers that should help:

• Plan your meals weekly
• Limit red meat
• Enjoy frozen vegetable and fruit
• Reduce eating out
• Eat before you go shopping
• Grow a garden!
• Shop for seasonal produce
• Look for generic brands to save money
• Make your own snacks

If you would like to learn more about how you can take long-term control of your heart health, reach out to Ascension Saint Thomas at 615-867-5028 and ask for the Sparta location.