5 Things You Can Do For Your Heart This Valentine's Day

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, you might be thinking about what you can do for your loved one(s) to make the day special. But for a truly celebratory V-day, forget the candy hearts this year! Instead, set your sights on doing something wonderful for your “real” heart to help keep you healthy for many more Valentine’s Days to come . . . there’s no better gift!

Here are five things that you can do to get your heart healthy this Valentine’s Day - and always.

See Your Doctor

A little quality time with your doctor may not be romantic, but it is definitely time well spent. Go in for a full checkup to ensure that your heart is healthy, as well as to find out what you should be doing to keep it so. Blood tests and a few different monitoring tests can help determine whether or not your heart is in tip-top shape. Your doctor can also make specific recommendations based on your overall health and lifestyle.

Do Some Cardio

There’s nothing better than cardio to get your heart pumping and keep your weight down. By exercising and getting your heart rate up, you increase blood flow to the heart. You also lose fat that can clog arteries and lead to heart disease. Not only that, but exercise is a natural stress reliever. Stress and anxiety has been shown time and time again to have a negative impact on your heart’s health. Get a workout in this Valentine’s Day by hitting the gym with your partner, going on a romantic hike together, or dancing the night away.

Spend time With Loved Ones

Whether it’s your partner/spouse, your siblings, or your pets; time spent with loved ones does wonders for the heart. Not only does it just feel good to be with those we love, but it has also been proven to lower stress levels and cut the risk of depression.

Eat Healthy

Do something good for yourself and your significant other by opting to eat healthier this Valentine’s Day, and in the days ahead. A well-balanced diet that is low in fat and high in fiber can lower cholesterol, keep weight in check, and improve your heart’s function. Try a healthy cooking class for two this Valentine’s Day to get healthy and enjoy a little quality time together.

Have Sex

Not that most people need to be told to do this—especially on what is supposed to be the most romantic day of the year. But did you know that sex is not only enjoyable, but also really good for your heart? The chemicals released in your system during sex can lower stress, alleviate anxiety, and get your heart pumping! That’s great incentive to make every day Valentine’s Day!