Healthy Hearts for Hotties

Hey girl, 

Did you know February is Heart Health month? No? That’s okay, here is some important information to help  ensure you are taking care of your heart and continuing to be filled with love. 

According to the CDC, Heart Disease refers to  different types of heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), which affects the blood flow to the heart. 

Heart disease can have a multitude of different symptoms. When having a heart attack, you can feel chest/neck pain, heartburn, nauseous, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Arrhythmia consists of a feeling of chest palpitations or fluttering. Heart failure can be a result of shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling of the feet, ankles, legs, abdomen, or neck veins. 

It is important to understand the risk factors when protecting yourself and your heart. Some risks include having high blood pressure or high cholesterol, diabetes, being overweight/obese, having an unhealthy diet, or a lack of physical activity.

While being in college, it is sometimes easy to get trapped in having an unhealthy diet or a weak routine in exercise. Here are some tips to prevent hurting your heart and remaining healthy. 

• Don’t smoke or use tobacco: These products, including enduring second hand smoke can lead to heart disease, so avoid using these products 
• Get outside and move! Even if it’s just a walk around campus or a jog in the gym, make sure that you are dedicating at least 30-60 minutes of daily activity. Research your campus’ organizations to see if aerobic exercises are available like yoga, dance class, or swimming for other alternatives. 
• Avoid the girl dinners! Even though it may be hard, try to eat a balanced diet. Try acai bowls or smoothies as a nice touch to your diet
• Stop doing all nighters! We all know that when work needs to be done, we have to get it done,but cut back on the late nights and early mornings to improve your heart health. Aim for 7+ hours to avoid problems
• Prioritize your peace! Stress can lead to issues in our health, especially as women. Looking for hobbies or activities to help you reduce stress and anxiety levels like going for walks, listening to music, crocheting, having a consistent routine, and practicing time management will all help you protect your heart.

Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated is a professional organization of registered nurses and nursing students whose goal is to develop healthy communities through advocacy, collaboration, education, leadership, research and service. The Sigma Chi Beta chapter is located at our illustrious North Carolina A&T, in which they hold programs for health promotions and disease prevention for youth and young adults, with the motto of “Service For Humanity.” 

Some of the members provided ways that they protect their heart health. 

Cherish Wylie, a Spring 24 initiate said, 

“High BP and cholesterol run in my family, so I try to make conscious choices everyday to protect my heart. Whether it’s choosing water over sugary drinks, staying active, or managing stress, I know that small changes now can make a big difference later.”

Sanaa Lewis, a Fall ‘22 initiate said, 

“To maintain my overall health and heart wellness, I have implemented a more nutritious diet by preparing more balanced meals at home rather than eating fast food. Additionally, I have increased my physical activity by maintaining a consistent gym routine. On days when I am unable to attend the gym, I incorporate alternative forms of exercise, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Lastly, attending my annual checks ups regularly is an important factor in supporting my overall well-being”

Girl, protecting your heart is not just about your feelings – it’s about taking the right steps to keep it strong and healthy!

• #college#health #lifestyle #