A Matter of Heart
Workouts to Prevent Strokes and Heart Attacks
February is a time to think about the heart. In February, we celebrate both Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month. If you haven’t been thinking about your heart health, it’s time to make it a priority. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States, claiming 610,000 lives every year. There are many types of heart disease, including high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Fortunately, most of these
diseases are preventable with good lifestyle choices. Not smoking, practicing good nutrition, and avoiding stress when possible all lead to a stronger heart. But the best way to protect your heart is with regular physical activity. It’s called “cardio” for a reason. Cardiovascular activity is a key part of maintaining cardiovascular (heart) health. When you get the blood pumping, you strengthen your heart and blood vessels, which improves the flow of oxygen throughout your body and lowers your blood pressure. Running, walking, swimming, cycling, jumping rope, and even dancing are all great cardio activities. The American Heart Association recommends five 30-minute moderate sessions of cardio each week. Cardio exercise can be physically demanding, which is why it’s so good for your heart. But if you’re struggling with pain or recovering from an injury, engaging in these kinds of activities can be dangerous. You don’t want to overdo it and turn a temporary injury into chronic pain. If you need help safely starting your exercise routine, be sure to call your physical therapist first. Your physical therapist can help create an appropriate exercise program for you, improving your physical fitness by addressing the root cause of your pain. Physical therapists are trained to help patients of all skill levels work out safely to improve their heart health. Customized workout plans, treating problem areas, and teaching proper form and posture are the foundations of overall well-being. While we can’t help you find the perfect date for Valentine’s Day, the team at Focus Physical Therapy can help improve your heart health. Call 949.709.8770 and ask how to make your heart health a priority without the pain.
HOMEMADE PALEO BREAD There’s nothing more comforting than a slice of homemade bread. Settle in with this paleo-friendly version of the ultimate comfort food.
HAVE A LAUGH
Ingredients
• 5 eggs • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp agave syrup • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 2/3 cups almond flour • 2 tbsp flaxseed meal • 2 tbsp coconut flour
• 2 tsp baking soda • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Directions
1. Heat oven to 350 F, and line an 8x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, flaxseed meal, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt. 3. Add eggs, olive oil, agave syrup, and vinegar and whisk until smooth. 4. Pour mixture into prepared 8x5-inch pan and smooth top with a spatula. 5. Bake for 35 minutes or until top is golden. Remove from pan and slice when cooled.
Focus Physical Therapy • Call 949.709.8770 • 3
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