Heart health checklist

Checklist for a healthier heart

For busy, on-the-go women, the following checklist allows you to check in with yourself and the steps you are taking for better heart health.

Lifestyle

Though many factors leading to heart disease cannot be changed, modifiable lifestyle changes can help reduce heart disease risks.

• I eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
• I am keep an eye on my sodium (salt) intake everyday
• I am exercising and integrating physical activity into my daily routine
• I am limiting saturated fats in my diet
• I drink alcohol only in moderation
• I am smoke-free
• I am actively trying to manage stress

Blood pressure

Keeping your blood pressure “in check” is essential for heart health.

As a key indicator of heart health you should make sure that you know your levels and communicate with your healthcare team about how to better manage your blood pressure.

• I have had my blood pressure checked in the last 12 months
• My blood pressure is in “the normal range” (under 130/85 mmHg, as defined by the Public Health Agency of Canada)
• At my last check up, I discussed with my doctor my blood pressure-related concerns

Cholesterol

Certain factors such as genetics, age, or even menopause can affect cholesterol levels. No matter what your age, it is important to talk to your doctor about your cholesterol levels and understand how you can help lower your cholesterol levels through positive lifestyle changes.

• I have both my HDL and LDL cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis (based on my physician’s recommendation)
• My total cholesterol count is 5.2 or less
• I am cutting down on saturated fats
• I have been tested for diabetes and I do not have diabetes or my diabetes is under control
• At my last check up, I talked to my doctor about my cholesterol levels and discussed how I can manage my cholesterol for better health