10 Things to Know About Your Heart

There’s so much you can do to keep your ticker happy and strong! Here are cool facts, must-know info, and easy to-do’s to help you live a long and energetic life.

1 Women's heart attack symptoms are different than men's.

While that "elephant on the chest" pressure you often hear about is still one of the most common heart attack warning signs among both men and women, women sometimes have no chest pressure at all and are likelier to experience other symptoms that are more subtle and can easily be confused with something else. Become familiar with these typical signs of heart attack and call 911 immediately if you notice any of them: •Shortness of breath • Nausea or vomiting A cold sweat, light-headedness, or fainting •Back, neck, jaw, or stomach pain •Pain or discomfort in one or both

2 STRETCHING IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEART.

You know getting regular exercise is key to keeping your overall health on track, particularly that of your heart, but cardio and strength training aren't the only things that help. Stretching is an excellent way to begin and end a workout, and it's also really great for your heart-it improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure, and decreases stiffness of the arteries, all of which may add up to a lower risk for heart attack and stroke.

HEART SMART

Stretching tips: Breathe evenly, be slow and controlled (not bouncy and jerky), and hold for 10 to 30 seconds.

3 EGGS AREN'T THE ENEMY.