American Heart Association
06/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/01/2024 02:00
July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, plus it's HOT so we've got some tips for staying heart healthy in the heat!
Hot enough for ya?
It may be too hot for your heart health!
The American Heart Association warns that extreme heat can be dangerous - even deadly - especially for people with existing heart disease.
In the summer heat, know how to recognize - and prevent - heat stroke
Think you're ready to brave the heat? It's best to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon (about noon to 3 p.m.) because the sun is usually at its strongest, putting you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses. More tips.
Know the Difference. Full text - Heat Stroke vs. Stroke Infographic
How to Stay Active in Warm Weather
When the temperature goes up in the summer months, exercising outside can become challenging. Even heat-loving, sun-seeking exercisers can become overheated when the sun is beaming down in the heat of the day.
Protect Your Heart in the Heat - especially when working outside in hot weather.
Beat the heat with hydrating foods this summer.
Staying active this summer as a family
Be a role model for an active lifestyle. Start moving more yourself and find ways to be active together as a family.
Physical activity should be fun for children and adolescents. Encourage kids to keep trying activities to discover the ones they like and will stick with long term.
Reduce or limit sedentary screen time, including watching television, playing video games and using a digital device.
Provide kids with opportunities to be active. Give them active toys and games, like bikes, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, jump ropes, balls and sports equipment.
Get familiar with community facilities near you, like pools, recreation centers, bike paths and parks.
Learn the American Heart Association's Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and the recommendations in children.
Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental health can positively or negatively impact your physical health and risk factors for heart disease and stroke, according to "Psychological Health, Well-Being, and the Mind-Heart-Body Connection," a scientific statement in the American Heart Association journal Circulation.
Stress may contribute to poor health behaviors linked to increased risk for heart disease and stroke, such as:
- Smoking
- Overeating
- Lack of physical activity
- Unhealthy diet
- Being overweight
- Not taking medications as prescribed
Resources:
- Combatting stress to improve the heart health of the Hispanic/Latino community (AHA News release)
- Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander adults less likely to receive mental health services despite growing need (AHA News release)
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Tips|
National Fishing Month - 10 Ways to Relax in Nature and Stress Less
National Blueberry Month Recipes with blueberries
National Avocado Month Pineapple, Cucumber, Avocado Salad with Cilantro Dressing
More July Calendar Highlights
7/1 - International Joke Day | Tell an Old Joke Day (7/24) Can the groan-up humor of 'dad jokes' possibly be good for health?
7/2 -Civil Rights Act Anniversary - signed into law in 1964, prohibited discrimination in public places, provided for the integration of schools and other public facilities, and made employment discrimination illegal.
7/3 -National Eat Beans Day - The Benefits of Beans and Legumes | National Stay Out of the Sun Day
7/3-8/11 - Dog Days of Summer -Can Your Pet Help You Be Healthier?
7/4 - Independence Day
7/5 - National Workaholics Day
7/7 - Father/Daughter Take a Walk Together Day| Global Forgiveness Day | National Day of Rock 'n' Roll - The American Heart Association wants to teach all Americans how to perform Hands-Only CPR. Check out our 'Don't Drop the Beat' playlist which are between 100 - 120 beats per minute, the same rate at which you should perform compressions when administering CPR. Join our Nations of Lifesavers.
7/11 - World Population Day
7/14 - Shark Awareness Day
7/15 - National Give Something Away Day
7/17 - World Emoji Day
7/21 - National Ice Cream Day - Avocado Banana Ice Cream | American Heart Association Recipes - This creamy all-fruit ice cream is a delicious way to boost both fruit and fiber intake. Easy to prep the night before to ensure a refreshing treat is ready for kids of all ages. | National Craft for your Local Shelters Day
7/23 - National Parents' Day | March for Men
7/24 - International Self-Care Day - Self-Care Isn't Selfish Infographic |Pioneer Day | Tell an Old Joke Day
7/25 - National Drowning Prevention Day Consider -Join our Nation of Lifesavers and learn CPR. The American Heart Association recommends CPR rescue breaths along with chest compressions in cases of drowning
7/26 - National Disability Independence Day commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law in 1990 | National Dog Photography Day - Healthy Bond for Life / Pets
7/28 - National Parents' Day
7/30 - Share a Hug Day | World Friendship Day
7/31 - National Avocado Day -Dairy-Free Berry Avocado Smoothie- This simple dairy-free berry smoothie made with almond milk, frozen berries and avocados is a creamy delicious treat anytime. This recipe from Avocados From Mexico is an American Heart Association Heart-Check Certified recipe. Avocado Salsa- Instead of the usual guacamole, try this rich dip that teams creamy avocado with tender black beans and crunchy chopped veggies. We even include homemade tortilla chips!