February 2023 Health Tip

by J. Renee Livsey, RN-BC |  February 1, 2023
Mt. Zion Monthly Health Tips
*Mind, Body, Spirit* = Wellness
February 2023
 
February is Black History Month and Heart Health Awareness Month
 
During this Black History Month, we celebrate Dr. Daniel Hale Williams. Dr. Williams was the first African American cardiologist. He practiced during an era when racism and discrimination prohibited African Americans from admission to public hospitals and denied black doctor’s internships and residencies to practice medicine. To counteract this, Dr. Williams founded Chicago’s Provident Hospital and Training school in 1891. In 1893 Dr. Williams performed the world’s first successful open-heart surgery at Provident Hospital. In 1913, Dr. Williams was appointed as the only African American charter member of the American College of Surgeons.
 
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States and is more prevalent in Black Americans than other ethnicities. Anyone can develop heart disease, but you are at higher risk if you have any of the following:
High cholesterol, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, are a smoker, are overweight, do not exercise at least 2 days per week, or do not eat a healthy diet. The good news is that there is a lot you can do to prevent heart disease. 
 
Taking the following steps consistently can lower your risks for heart disease: 
  • Eating healthier – more fresh fruits and vegetables, low salt, low fat 
  • Get active – just 30 minutes a day of physical activity can improve your heart health
  • Stay at a healthy weight – ask your health care provider what your ideal weight is and take steps to lose weight if needed 
  • Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke 
  • Control your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure – if prescribed medication, take it every day as prescribed
  • Drink alcohol only in moderation 
  • Manage stress – According to an article in the AARP Bulletin, there are some possible psychological benefits of regularly attending worship services, including an increased ability to cope with stress 
 
Taking control of our heart health is the first step to overall wellness!
 
 
Praying for *Mind, Body, and Spiritual* Wellness to you,
The Mt. Zion Health and Wellness Ministry