February is American Heart Month and Frankel Dentistry is spreading awareness and encouraging heart healthy habits. Believe it or not, your oral health is connected to your heart health! Oral health is often overlooked but did you know there are currently 3.6 billion individuals struggling with oral diseases?

Picture of smiling young adult with her hands in a heart shape. She has long hair and wearing sunglasses on her head.

Your mouth is typically a good indicator of your overall well-being. Individuals with periodontal disease have the same risk factors as those with heart disease. Diseases such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s can all be connected to oral health. How can you make sure to keep your heart strong and healthy?

Here are some heart healthy habits to help encourage a healthy lifestyle!

  • A Healthy Diet

Limit your fat and sodium consumption! Highly fat foods are known to increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. This is because fatty foods increase cholesterol which lead to high blood pressure, build up in the blood, clogged arteries, and more.

A heart healthy diet includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and limit processed foods.

  • Exercise!

30 minutes a few days a week is all you need! Cardio exercises such as walking, running, cycling, or exercise classes all help strengthen your heart. Find a form of exercise you love and will look forward to!

  • Dental Care

As you know a healthy mouth promotes a healthy body! Studies have shown bacteria in the mouth creates plaque which can move into the bloodstream and increase your risk for diabetes, stroke, and more. Remember to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, floss regularly, and schedule your re-care appointments!

  • Quality Rest

Quality sleep is essential to your health and well-being. Sleep allows your heart to rest as well as improve blood pressure and heart rate. We recommend a 7-8 hours of quality rest a night.