5 Tips for Looking After Your Heart This Heart Month from Right at Home North Leeds, Otley and Horsforth
Published: 01/02/2025
February marks the British Heart Foundation’s Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart health and encourage individuals to take steps to look after their hearts. Here at Right at Home North Leeds, Otley, and Horsforth, we are proud partners of the British Heart Foundation, and together, we work to promote healthy lifestyles that can help prevent heart-related issues.
With an estimated 7.6 million people in the UK living with heart and circulatory problems, it’s important to adopt habits that can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. To help you improve your heart health, we’ve put together five simple but effective tips that you can implement this Heart Month.
Tip 1: Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet
One of the most effective ways to look after your heart is through a nutritious diet. Incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals provides your body with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eating plenty of whole grains and lean proteins such as fish, poultry, or plant-based sources will also support your heart health.
It’s important to avoid processed and fried foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can increase your risk of heart disease. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps keep you hydrated and supports healthy digestion, while adequate sleep also plays a vital role in maintaining your overall health and energy levels.
For more tips on maintaining a healthy diet, visit our Healthy Eating page.
Tip 2: Limit Your Alcohol Intake
While enjoying an occasional drink is fine for most people, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke. The British Heart Foundation recommends limiting your alcohol intake to no more than 14 units per week. That’s approximately six pints of beer or seven glasses of wine.
Consider tracking your alcohol intake and reducing consumption where possible. Not only will this benefit your heart, but it will also improve your overall health and energy levels.
Tip 3: Visit Your Doctor for Regular Check-ups
Regular health check-ups with your GP are crucial for monitoring your heart health. At Right at Home North Leeds, Otley, and Horsforth, we encourage you to take advantage of free NHS health checks if you’re between the ages of 40-74. These checks can help detect early signs of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other risk factors.
Your doctor can provide personalised guidance on how to improve your heart health and give you advice on lifestyle changes that will support your well-being.
Tip 4: Manage Your Stress Levels
Chronic stress is a major contributor to heart disease, so it’s essential to find ways to manage stress in your daily life. Incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce stress and promote overall mental well-being.
Making time for activities that bring you joy - whether it’s spending time with loved ones, engaging in hobbies, or simply enjoying some quiet time - can help you maintain a calm mind and keep stress at bay. By managing your stress, you’re also reducing the strain on your heart.
Tip 5: Stay Active and Exercise Regularly
Exercise is a fantastic way to improve heart health. Activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming are excellent choices to get your heart pumping. The British Heart Foundation recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times a week to improve heart health.
Not only does exercise strengthen your heart, but it also enhances your mood, reduces stress, and helps maintain a healthy weight. If you’re new to exercise, start slowly and gradually build up your stamina. Your heart will thank you for it!
Learn more about local groups in the area by visiting our Falls Prevention blog for a list of activities. Plus read about staying active by visiting our Keeping Active page.
Exercise Classes for Over 60s
Here are some local exercise classes in the North Leeds, Otley, and Horsforth areas that you might consider:
AVSED (Aireborough Voluntary Services to the Elderly) Rawdon, Leeds, Offers a range of activities for older adults, including exercise classes tailored to individual needs. For the latest timetable, please contact them directly at info@avsed.org.uk or call 0113 250 1702.
MHA Communities Horsforth Horsforth, North Leeds Provides various activities for older people, such as chair aerobics and other gentle exercise sessions. For current schedules, reach out to Dean Steadman on 0113 259 1511.
OPAL (Older People's Action in the Locality) Tinshill, Cookridge, Bramhope and Adel Offers exercise classes designed for older adults, including chair-based activities. For the most recent timetable, contact 0113 261 9103 or email: admin@opal-project.org.uk
Engaging in these local classes can be a great way to stay active and support your heart health.
Learn How to Save a Life This Heart Month
During Heart Month, Right at Home North Leeds, Otley, and Horsforth is also partnering with the British Heart Foundation to help local families, businesses, and community groups learn how to perform CPR. By using the ReviR app, you can learn life-saving techniques in just 15 minutes. This initiative could help you save a life in an emergency situation.
The ReviR app provides real-time feedback, helping you master the correct technique and gain confidence in performing CPR. For more information or to join one of our CPR training sessions, get in touch with us today.
Contact us today
At Right at Home North Leeds, Otley, and Horsforth, we’re committed to supporting our clients and their loved ones in leading a healthy and active lifestyle. Our CareGivers can help you monitor your heart health and assist you in maintaining a routine that promotes heart wellness. For more information about our homecare services, contact us today on 0113 340 6000.
Together, we can help ensure that you and your loved ones lead long, healthy lives with a strong and happy heart.
