6 Tips for a Heart Healthy Summer

More daylight, hotter temperatures and lighter schedules combine to make summer more relaxing than other seasons. Take advantage of this refreshing change to practice some self-care. 

1. Enjoy the slower pace of life. Unchecked stress may contribute to high blood pressure and other heart disease risk factors. Take time off to rest and recharge. 
    
2. Indulge in the fruits (and veggies) of the season. Summer's abundance of heart-healthy produce includes sweet blueberries, crisp bell peppers, tasty peaches and juice tomatoes. 
    
3. Make good use of the after-work sunlight. Embrace evening runs, walks, tennis games and backyard dance parties. Bonus: Exercising late in the day protects you from the sun's most intense ultraviolet rays. 
    
4. Boost your grilling skills. Experiment with grilling fish and vegetables or combine the two to make delicious kabobs. For dessert, toss some peaches or pineapple slices on the grill. 
    
5. Nurture your relationships. "Staying socially connected helps prevent depression - a condition that could put you at risk for heart disease," said Pranav Diwan, MD, FACC, FSCAI, interventional cardiologist at Cardiovascular Consultants of  South Georgia. "Use some of your spare time this summer to have fun with the important people in your life."
    
6. Check in on your overall health. Take time to get back on track with important medical appointments, including your annual wellness exam with your primary care physician. 

Packing with Heart

Your summer trip is just days away! Whether you're heading to the beach, lake or mountains, here's what to pack to have a heart-healthy time: 

• Board games for spending fun nights with the people you love
   
• Breathable activewear and athletic shoes for runs, hikes and outdoor games
   
• Favorite healthy recipes, so you can eat in on a few occasions
   
• Item(s) to have handy when you want to relax, such as books, a journal, a yoga mat, art supplies, a camera or binoculars for birding
   
• Items to make outdoor activities safer and more enjoyable, including sunscreen and insect repellent
   
• Necessary medical supplies, such as a first-aid kit and any medications you take
   
• Nutritious snacks, such as almonds, granola, bananas and carrot sticks
   
• Swinmear that's comfortable for both aquatic exercise and poolside relaxation
   
• Water bottle that you can use and refill often

Call 229.351.8062 to schedule an appointment at Cardiovascular Consultants of South Georgia.