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Spring Into Better Heart Health

Spring is finally here! The snow is all but melted, the grass is turning green, and the cold temperatures are starting to become a thing of the past. It also means more opportunities to get outside, get active, and spring into healthier habits. If you’ve spent a little too much time as a couch potato this winter, here are four HVI-recommended tips for getting back into a healthy routine.

Get As Much Daylight As Possible

Did you know that getting sunlight is good for your heart? When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it jumpstarts a process that turns cholesterol into vitamin D, called vitamin D synthesis. Likewise, studies have shown a connection between increased sunlight exposure and lower blood pressure, as well as lower cardiovascular mortality. Now that there’s more sunlight every day, try your best to get outside, soak up the sun, and start getting active.

Take Advantage of the Warmer Temperatures

Ready to break out of that winter funk? In addition to there being more sunlight every day, you can finally start leaving the house without needing 3 extra layers. That means there are no more excuses for not going for a quick walk, bike ride, or getting some work done outside. Just 30 minutes of moderate activity each day can have tremendous benefits for your heart and overall health.

Avoid Extra Caffeine to Combat Tiredness

With clocks springing ahead one hour, it’s not unusual for your body’s Circadian rhythm to be thrown off – even weeks later. That said, it’s important to be weary of how much caffeine you’re consuming to help you stay alert. Too much caffeine at the end of the day can throw off your Circadian rhythm even more, with coffee drinkers averaging a half-hour less sleep each night.

Introduce More Fresh Fruits and Vegetables to Your Diet

Still not feeling 100% caught up since the time change? It’s not unusual for your body’s Circadian rhythm to be thrown off, even weeks later. This is extra important for coffee drinkers, as too much caffeine at the end of the day can throw off your Circadian rhythm even more. Studies have shown that coffee drinkers average a half-hour less sleep each night, so it’s important to be weary of how much caffeine you’re consuming – especially at the end of the day.

Ready to get your spring started on the right foot? Try following the tips above and make sure you talk to your doctor about any health concerns you may have. You can schedule an appointment at HVI by clicking the image below.

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