Oh it’s that time of the year when we get especially cuddly with our loved one, break out the flowers, chocolates and candies, all put in the shape of hearts, to remind us all that this year you are loved. We all wish nothing but love and health during Valentine’s day, and with well wishing comes a time to understand that sometimes we have to do what it takes to have a healthy heart – emotionally, mentally and physically. This year, make sure that you take a special look at not only the heart you give out, but also the heart you have ticking inside you each and every moment in your life. Though men have been noted as having the biggest issue with heart disease, women have been on the rise for heart troubles, so much so that it is now the biggest issue among woman in America.

With all of the major issues that seem to be pressing on the health of women in this country; diabetes, breast cancer, etc… the biggest and most alarming without a doubt is heart disease. The American Heart Association (AHA) announced that strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases are the #1 biggest health risk for death among women in the U.S. Heart disease claims the lives of over 400,000 women each year, and some of the reasons might be surprising.

Women Need to Know the Signs of Trouble
With the rise of heart disease in America among women, it has been noted that many women don’t even realize there is an issue until it becomes a bigger issue. Among all the symptoms and signals that are signs of troubles ahead, it seems that the biggest issue is doubt. Many women will shrug off the signs as something else, not taking the extra precaution to even think that they have a heart issue, until it becomes a serious heart problem. Women have historically had heart attacks later in life than men, with the main reason being menopause. Hormone estrogen gives cardiovascular benefits to women, and also has shown to lower LDL (Bad Cholesterol) levels and increase HDL (Good Cholesterol) levels.  When Menopause hits, women’s estrogen levels decrease as much as 90% and equals out their chances just as much as men.

Age Not Always a Safe Barrier Against Heart Disease
Just because you may be years or decades away from Menopause, it still does not mean you shouldn’t keep an eye on your heart. Health issues during pregnancy such as Gestational diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol may have effects that last long after pregnancy.  Also, with the rise of obesity in America, women of all ages have seen a rise in heart and cardiovascular issues, bringing the chance for heart disease at a much stronger and more alarming rate than ever before.

Treat Yourself to a Healthy Lifestyle
Take a look at some of the big factors that can lead to heart disease. Smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and family history can all show indications of trouble later on in life.  You can take easy steps today to help you minimize the risks of heart disease. It really can be as easy as eating healthier and exercise. Take more walks, eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables and keep your stress levels down. Do what it takes to make sure you are healthy, today, because it really can save you tomorrow.

So this Valentine’s day, do something healthy with your love one. Sure have a heart-shaped chocolate here and there, but make a decision to treat yourself to a healthy-coated heart throughout your life, bringing much more happiness, love, joy and satisfaction to you and those you love.

Here’s to many healthy and happy Valentine’s Day celebrations in your life!

Chris Haro