By Ashley Follett

February is not just the month of love; it’s also American Heart Month.

Your heart is the engine that powers your daily life and taking proactive steps to ensure your heart’s well-being is a commitment to a healthier life. Here are some practical health tips to keep your heart in top shape.

Eat a healthy diet: Fueling your body with the right nutrients is key to cardiovascular health. Incorporate a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins into your diet while limiting the intake of saturated fats, salt and sugars.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts and seeds, are particularly beneficial for heart health.

Get active: Regular physical activity is a non-negotiable component of a heart-healthy lifestyle. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance class or a jog in the park, find an activity that brings you joy and gets your heart pumping.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to heart problems, so incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as meditation, deep breathing or spending time in nature.

Kick bad habits to the curb: Tobacco use greatly increases your risk for heart disease. So, if you don’t use tobacco now, don’t start. If you do, quitting will lower your risk for heart disease. Call the Kansas QuitLine at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or go to KSquit.org for help.

Regular health check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference.

This Heart Month, commit to making choices that show your heart the love it deserves. Small, consistent steps toward a heart-healthy lifestyle can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being.

Live well today to live better tomorrow!

Ashley Follett is senior communications specialist at the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment.