February is American Heart month to help raise awareness for heart disease and promote healthy lifestyles. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in America in both men and women. Although heart disease can be genetic it can also be cause of sedentary lifestyles. There are many easy lifestyle changes that can make for a healthier you.

The American Heart Association gives 7 simple changes that can make a big difference.

Get active- Exercise and activity are not only good for your heart but it can have an impact on blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and fatigue. Activity can be adding moderate exercise like walking or bike riding to your weekly routine or taking the stairs and not waiting for the closest parking spot to the building.

Eat Healthier- A heart healthy diet contains foods rich in fiber, protein and whole grains with lots of fruits and veggies. When preparing a meal try to have lots of different colors of vegetables that are full of vitamins and minerals. Keeping healthy snacks in the house makes for good choices between meals. Cut back on processed sugars, cholesterol and sodium.

Lose Weight- Becoming more active and changing your eating habits will help with losing weight. When you are at a healthy weight you may find you feel better, your blood pressure is lower and that your cholesterol and blood sugar are in normal range.

Stop Smoking- Cigarette smokers are more at risk for cardiovascular disease and lots of different cancers. Although stopping may seem like a daunting task it is well worth it for your health and for those you love.

The last 3 changes are lowering your blood pressure, reducing your blood sugar and lowering cholesterol.

This month take control of your health one step at a time and choose a better quality for your life. These simple steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.