February is the perfect time to be thinking about your heart health because it is American Heart Month.
There are several key numbers that you should know in order to monitor your cardiovascular health. These are your:
- blood pressure
- blood sugar
- blood cholesterol
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force of blood against your arteries when your heart beats and rests. A normal blood pressure is between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg.
Consistently high blood pressure levels, also called hypertension, can put you at a greater risk of serious conditions, including heart attacks, strokes and heart failure.
Use a blood pressure log, like the one from the American Heart Association, to track your blood pressure every day.
Blood sugar, also called glucose, is often measured by using a fasting blood sugar test after a night of not eating. For those without diabetes, a glucose level between 70-99 mg/dL is normal. Higher readings may indicate pre-diabetes or diabetes.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance in your blood. High levels of cholesterol can lead to fatty deposits in your blood vessels, which put you at a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol is typically measured with a blood test, and normal readings are those less than 200 mg/dL for total cholesterol.
Finally, BMI is a measurement of body fat based on your height and weight. A normal BMI is between 18.5-24.9. An elevated BMI can indicate that you are at a greater risk of developing conditions like hypertension, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
There are healthy habits you can adopt to maintain good heart health and keep your numbers on track. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity five times per week. Eat a diet full of fruits, vegetables, high fiber grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy. Don’t smoke cigarettes because they are a major cause of cardiovascular disease.
Work with your primary care doctor to learn more and to track your heart health numbers.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
