When it comes to your heart health, what you eat matters. Start with simple actions, for example, always choose items from the produce section when grocery shopping. Cook and meal prep at home more than eating out. Or plant a garden to incorporate more fruits and vegetables.

Knowing the signs of a heart attack could save your life. Many of us know that uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, sharp pain or fulness in the chest is a signal. But did you know it's common to experience other, lesser known signs, such as shortness of breath or fatigue?  Also, look out for swelling, pain in the jaw, neck, back, shoulders or arms. 

Your cholesterol, resting heart rate, blood sugar and blood pressure numbers are your heart health roadmap. It's important to know where you stand so you can know where you are headed. These numbers can also indicate your risk for heart disease or stroke. 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S. The good news is that it is preventable with healthy lifestyle choices. To help lower your risk, add aerobic exercise to your routine, stay well hydrated, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, get enough sleep, refrain from smoking and excess alcohol consumption and keep up with your regular doctor's appointments and screenings. 

When you can't seem to find the time to work out, try incorporating movement into your everyday tasks. Moving more helps lower blood pressure and improves cholesterol levels, which promotes good heart health. Try going for a walk when you get a phone call. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or set a timer while you work to insure you get up and walk around every hour. 

While high blood pressure and high cholesterol are key risks for heart disease, so are external factors, like anxiety and stress. Talking with friends and family can lower stress. Getting regular exercise and plenty of sleep have been shown to relieve tension and anxiety. If stress, anxiety or depression begin to take a toll on you, please talk to your doctor or a mental health professional right away.

When it comes to heart health, you have permission to sleep in. Poor sleep quality has been shown to increase one's risk of high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol. If you have a hard time getting a good night's rest, trying going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including the weekends. Refrain from using electronic devices close to bedtime. And avoid large meals, caffeine and alcohol or other stimulants in the evening. 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but it is often preventable and treatable. Your doctor is one of the most important tools you have in preventing heart disease. This is especially true for those with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors like diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. Reach out to your primary care provider or cardiologist if you have any concerns about your cardiovascular health.