February is about more than Valentine's Day. It is American Heart Month.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Utah for both men and women. To prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, Salt Lake Direct Primary Care is proudly participating in American Heart Month. In 2016, 3,636 Utahns died from heart disease! Much of this is preventable.

• Call to schedule a free blood pressure check (through the end of February).

• Although medications are sometimes necessary to lower the risk of heart disease, most people have room for improvement in optimizing their lifestyle. Talk with your doctor if you are at risk.

You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have heart disease. To lower your risk:

• Watch your weight.

• Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.

• Control your cholesterol and blood pressure.

• Know if you have diabetes and keep your sugars controlled.

• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.

• Get 45 minutes of activity

• Eat healthy. Avoid processed foods & aim for 5-8 servings of fruits and veggies daily.

For more information, visit www.saltlakedirectprimarycare.com or call (385) 449-0688 today.