February, the month of love, is also an opportune time to show some love to your heart. As we observe Heart Health Month, we’re reminded of the critical role heart health plays in our overall well-being. Last year, we explored the various risk factors and preventive measures for heart disease (visit www.alaskahealthfair.org, search for “heart health”). This year, let’s shift our focus to simple, actionable steps you can take right now to embark on a journey toward better heart health.
Step It Up with Walking
A stroll might seem mundane, but it’s a powerhouse of heart health benefits. Walking is a wonderfully accessible form of exercise that bolsters heart strength, aids weight management, and uplifts your mood. Start small – a brisk 10-minute daily walk is a great beginning. As you grow comfortable, gradually increase your pace and duration. Remember, every step counts!
Heart-Healthy Eating Made Easy
Your heart loves good food just as much as your taste buds do. Incorporate a rainbow of fruits and vegetables into your diet, and choose whole grains over processed ones. A little change, like swapping out salty snacks for nuts or using olive oil instead of butter, can have big impacts on your heart’s health. Think of it as a culinary adventure for both your palate and your heart!
Stress Less
Our hearts are sensitive to stress. Integrate simple stress reduction techniques into your daily routine. This could be as easy as taking five minutes to breathe deeply, practicing mindfulness, or finding joy in a hobby. Remember, a happy heart is a healthy heart.
Keep a Check on Your Blood Pressure
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to blood pressure. Regular monitoring can be a game-changer for heart health. If you’re unsure about how to start, our team at Alaska Health Fair can guide you. We also have resources available on our website (www.alaskahealthfair.org, search for “blood pressure”). Keeping track of your numbers at home is a proactive way to stay on top of your heart health.
The Gift of Good Sleep
Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Quality sleep plays a crucial role in heart health. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, dim those screens, and let your body and heart rest. Sweet dreams indeed lead to a healthy heart!
Rethink Your Drink and Smoke
If smoking or alcohol are part of your routine, consider cutting back. Your heart will thank you for it. Resources are available if you need support, including Alaska’s Tobacco Quit Line (1-800-QUIT-NOW).
This Heart Health Month, let’s take these small yet significant steps towards a healthier heart. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Each positive change is a victory for your heart. Let’s walk this journey together, one heart-healthy step at a time, towards a future where our hearts beat stronger and healthier.
Stay on Top of Your Numbers
Thousands of Alaskans take advantage of AHF‘s affordable blood tests each year. We offer this service in partnership with a top-ranking clinical laboratory used by local hospitals and providers, making it available to you through AHF at nonprofit pricing.
We have many dates and locations available for your convenience. To schedule an appointment and see our complete health fair schedule, please visit www.alaskahealthfair.org, or give us a call – (907) 278-0234 in Anchorage/Statewide, (907) 374-6853 in Fairbanks/Northern Regions, and (907) 723-5100 in Southeast.
- 27 panels – Comprehensive Blood Chemistry Screen – covers infection, anemia, liver disease, clotting ability, kidney and adrenal function, liver function, bone disease, tissue disease or damage, heart function, liver function, muscle function, coronary heart disease, & more – $45
- Thyroid Screen – $40
- Prostate Disease Screen – $25
- Vitamin D Screen – $55
- A1C diabetes – $25
- Blood Typing – $25
- More tests and details on www.alaskahealthfair.org.
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New to Health Fairs?
Please review this one-pager to learn what to expect at a health fair.
We Make It Easy to Stay on Top of Your Numbers
Alaska Health Fair, Inc., a nonprofit, has been providing health education and affordable blood screenings since 1980. Each year, thousands of Alaskans take advantage of the affordable blood tests offered at health fairs. We collaborate with the largest clinical laboratory in the nation to ensure the availability of high-quality blood screenings to all Alaskans at a nonprofit price.
Wellness the Alaskan Way
From the North Slope to Southeast, health fairs bring neighbors together to help neighbors take charge of their health through volunteering, education and preventative screenings. Our fairs unite hundreds of local medical and non-medical volunteers with health-focused organizations who share their expertise at no cost. Exhibitor space is always free at AHF events! This grassroots model of Alaskans supporting Alaskans has been building a stronger, healthier state.
Would You Like to Host a Health Fair?
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