February marks American Heart Month, a reminder that heart health matters at every age. According to the American Heart Association, adults aren’t the only ones at risk—more than 23,000 children experience cardiac arrest each year. Experts strongly encourage parents, teachers, and anyone who works with children to learn CPR, a skill that can save lives in critical moments.
Diet also plays a major role in heart health. A study published in Nature magazine found that even small amounts of processed meats-such as bacon, bologna, and hot dogs-can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and colorectal cancer. Health experts recommend limiting processed foods and choosing healthier alternatives whenever possible.
Another growing concern is inactivity. Healthcare professionals often warn that “sitting is the new smoking.” Too much time spent sitting has been linked to heart disease, dementia, weight gain, back problems, varicose veins, and diabetes. Adding more movement throughout the day, even in small ways, can help reduce these risks.
With the Super Bowl approaching this Sunday, cardiologists are also reminding fans to take care of their hearts. The emotional stress of an intense game can trigger adrenaline, raising heart rate and blood pressure. Combined with junk food and alcohol, that stress can increase the risk of cardiac events. Doctors say the key to enjoying the big game safely is moderation—both on the plate and in the stands.