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4 Ways to Prevent the Number One Women's Health
Problem
Julie Lenz
What disease kills more American women than any other?
If you answered anything except heart disease then you must read
this article. According to the American Heart Association heart
disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 3 killers of women. They
are two of the many cardiovascular diseases that kill nearly
500,000 women each year. That's more than the next seven
causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. But there
are steps you can take to protect yourself.
1. Get your cholesterol tested every year. Many women don't
know they have high cholesterol. They assume that heart disease
is a man's problem. Even many doctors don't realize the risk that
women have of heart disease so they fail to suggest testing.
2. Increase your weekly exercise. We now know that as little as 10
minutes of exercise three times a week can greatly reduce the risk
of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Take the stairs instead of
the elevator. Walk the dog a little bit longer each day. Get your
heart pumping by dancing to your favorite music while you clean
the house. Walk during your lunch hour instead of eating at your
desk.
3. Eat more fruits and veggies. Fruits and vegetables are low in fat
and high in fiber. They contain heart healthy nutrients. Leafy
greens are particularly healthy. Orange juice is high in folic acid, a
nutrient known to protect the heart and prevent birth defects. Add
one vegetable or fruit to every meal and you will likely double your
current intake. You can make it easier by keeping prepared
vegetables in the refrigerator to throw into a salad or munch on
for snacks.
4. Learn about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS affects as
many as 5-10% of all women. It is one of the most common
endocrine disorders and is one of the most common causes of infertility.
PCOS is a cluster of symptoms that can include: unexplained weight
gain or difficulty losing weight, depression or mood swings, painful
or irregular periods, absent periods, acne, hair loss, unexpected hair
growth (face, arms, stomach, etc.), infertility, high cholesterol, high
blood pressure and more. Untreated PCOS can lead to serious
health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and endometrial
cancer. Protecting your heart is easier than you might think and it
will reward you every moment of every day. Take care of yourself.
You are worth it!
Julie Lenz is a life coach who helps professional women cope with
the effects of chronic illness. She writes the weekly e-newsletter
"PCOS Success!" She is also the author of "A PCOS Daybook: Daily
Meditations for Coping With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome" to be
released May 2004. You can learn more at:
www.pcoscoach.com
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Women's Issues & Women's Health
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