How to Keep Your Heart Happy This National Heart Month
February is National Heart Month, the perfect time to show your heart a little extra love.
At Shropshire Health Clinic, we see first-hand how small changes can make a big difference to your heart health – and the good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re 20 or 70, there are simple, practical steps everyone can take to look after their heart, the sooner you start the more benefit you’ll see during your lifetime!
1. Move More – Even Just a Little Counts
You don’t need to run marathons (unless you want to). Regular activity helps keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in check.
Heart fact: Just 30 minutes of brisk walking, 5 times a week, can reduce your risk of heart disease by up to 30%.
Trusted tips: Take the stairs, walk the dog a bit longer, or have a dance-off in your kitchen. Your heart doesn’t care how you move – just that you do!
2. Eat for Your Heart
Your diet is one of the biggest influencers of cardiovascular health.
Fruit and veg: Aim for at least 5 portions a day.
Omega-3 fats: Found in fish-like salmon, or plant sources like chia seeds.
Reduce salt and sugar: Too much can raise blood pressure and cholesterol.
Mind your portion sizes: Overeating, even healthy foods, can still stress your heart.
Heart fact: Eating more berries, dark chocolate (in moderation!), and leafy greens can boost your heart health.
3. Know Your Numbers
Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar – these can all silently affect your heart. Many people feel fine, but unseen changes can increase risk.
At Shropshire Health Clinic, we offer full cardiovascular checks, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and even ECGs. With a cardiologist on site, you get specialist insights without the hospital wait.
Heart fact: High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it often has no symptoms until it causes serious problems such as heart attack and strokes.
4. Don’t Smoke or vape!
Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. Vaping can also increase your heart rate and blood pressure.
Heart fact: Within 1 year of quitting, your risk of heart attack drops by about 50%.
5. Manage Stress and Sleep
Stress can spike your blood pressure and sugar levels. Sleep deprivation also raises cardiovascular risk.
Try deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Keep a consistent sleep schedule.
Heart fact: People who sleep less than 6 hours a night have a higher risk of heart disease than those who sleep 7–8 hours.
6. Limit Alcohol, But Enjoy Life
Moderate alcohol can be fine for some people, but excessive drinking raises blood pressure and can lead to heart problems. Alcohol contains a high level of sugars which can influence your blood sugars and even your cholesterol!
Heart fact: Heavy drinking is linked to atrial fibrillation – a heart rhythm problem that can be serious.
7. Small Changes, Big Impact
Even one or two healthy habits can make a huge difference over time.
Easy wins:
Take a 10-minute walk after lunch
Swap sugary snacks for fruit or nuts
Try deep breathing while waiting for your coffee
Schedule a health check at Shropshire Health Clinic
Why a GP Check is Worth It
Early detection is everything. At Shropshire Health Clinic, we provide:
Full cardiovascular checks for all adults
Personalized lifestyle advice
Relevant blood tests to detect your full cardiovascular risk profile
On-site cardiologist consultation for those who need it
Even if you feel healthy, a quick check can uncover hidden risk factors and give peace of mind.
Celebrate National Heart Month
This February, take a moment to check in with your heart – literally and figuratively. Walk more, eat more plants, manage stress, and if you haven’t had a cardiovascular check recently, you can check your blood pressure or book a health check at Shropshire Health Clinic.
