February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and encouraging habits that support cardiovascular well-being. It’s an opportunity for individuals and families to learn more about the steps they can take to reduce risk factors, stay active, make heart-conscious food choices, and recognize the signs of a possible heart emergency. It also includes National Wear Red Day on February 6, which serves as a reminder to raise awareness of heart disease and the importance of prevention, education, and early action.
Supporting Heart Health During the Winter
Winter weather can make it more challenging to stay active and maintain healthy routines, but caring for your heart remains important year-round. Colder temperatures often lead to more time indoors and less movement, which can affect energy levels and overall well-being.
Finding safe, manageable ways to stay active indoors can help support circulation and maintain healthy habits during the winter months. Small amounts of movement throughout the day can add up and help reduce the effects of long periods of inactivity.
Winter-friendly activity examples include:
- Walking indoors at home or in community spaces
- Gentle stretching or range-of-motion exercises
- Low-impact movement routines done at your own pace
- Light household tasks that encourage regular movement
- Seated or balance exercises for individuals with limited mobility
Staying active does not require intense exercise. Choosing activities that feel comfortable and fit your daily routine can help support heart health during the colder months.
Heart-Healthy Food Choices
Nutrition plays an important role in heart health. The American Heart Association encourages a balanced diet that supports healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Heart-healthy food tips include:
- Choosing fruits and vegetables when possible
- Selecting whole grains such as oats, brown rice, and whole-grain bread
- Including lean protein sources such as fish, skinless poultry, or lentils
- Limiting foods high in added salt, sugar, and saturated fats
- Drinking enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated
Small, realistic changes to eating habits can support heart health long term.
When Chest Pain Happens: What to Do
Knowing when to seek immediate medical care is an important part of heart health awareness.
Call 911 right away if you or someone nearby experiences chest pain or discomfort that is sudden, severe, or accompanied by:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, or back
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or sweating
Chest pain should never be ignored. Acting quickly during a possible heart emergency can be lifesaving. Mahnomen Health’s Emergency Department is available to provide urgent care when needed.
Ways to Observe American Heart Month
American Heart Month encourages individuals, families, and communities to focus on heart health through awareness and everyday actions. Ways to participate include:
Raise Awareness
- Wear red on National Wear Red Day (February 6)
- Share heart health information with family and friends
Learn and Prepare
- Learn CPR and basic life-saving skills
- Become familiar with heart attack warning signs
Support Healthy Habits
- Set weekly activity goals
- Plan heart-healthy meals
- Monitor blood pressure when recommended
These steps can help support heart health and encourage healthier habits throughout the year.
Heart Health Matters Every Day
American Heart Month is a reminder that heart health deserves attention year-round. Staying active during winter, making thoughtful food choices, and knowing when to seek emergency care are all important steps in supporting cardiovascular well-being.
Mahnomen Health is here to support patients and families with care, resources, and emergency services when they are needed most. We are committed to promoting health and well-being through education, accessible care, and services close to home. During American Heart Month and throughout the year, we strive to provide information and support that help individuals make informed decisions about their heart health.