Monday, September 30, 2024

National Cholesterol Education Month (September) - and National Yoga Month

 

September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a great opportunity to learn more about managing cholesterol levels to maintain heart health. Here are a few tips we all should be aware of;

Why Cholesterol Matters

  • Cholesterol is essential for building cells, but too much can lead to heart disease.
  • High cholesterol often has no symptoms; a blood test is the only way to detect it.

Tips for Managing Cholesterol

  • Regular Screenings: Aged 20+ should have their cholesterol levels checked every 4-6 years.
  • Dietary Changes:
    • Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
    • Limit saturated fats (that can be found in red meat and full-fat dairy products).
    • Avoid trans fats (that can be found in processed foods and baked goods).
  • Exercise:
    • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week. An easy start for most beginners starting out.
  • Medications:
    • All should be discussed cholesterol-lowering medications with your doctor

Healthy Habits for Heart Health

  • Stay Hydrated: Water helps keep your blood flowing and reduces strain on the heart.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking can lower your good cholesterol (HDL) and raise bad cholesterol (LDL).
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress may contribute to higher cholesterol levels.

Curtesy: nhn, Women Health


National Yoga Month



Its National Yoga Month, which celebrates the health benefits of yoga, particularly for seniors. Yoga can help improve flexibility, balance, and mental well-being.



A few beneficial ways of Yoga for Seniors

  • Improves Flexibility: Helps maintain mobility and reduce stiffness in muscles and joints.
  • Enhances Balance: Reduces the risk of falls,
  • Boosts Mental Clarity: Yoga can relieve stress and improve concentration.
  • Supports Heart Health: Yoga can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Promotes Better Sleep: With regular yoga practice  you can enhance sleep quality.