Kosher Fitness
By Michael Ungar
It’s almost St. Valentine’s Day. Coincidentally (or maybe not), February is also American Heart Month.
This is a time of the year when we should be especially thinking about heart health. What are the most important things for older adults to know about our tickers?
The most important steps we can take to keep our hearts healthy are:
- Get regular medical checkups. Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and glucose levels need to be done routinely. At the same time, all prescription medications should be reviewed, and if still appropriate be taken regularly.
- Make the appropriate changes in lifestyle and diet. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week as well as routine strength training. Diet should include more healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and fish; keep sodium, sugar, and fats to a minimum. Keep hydrated and get enough rest (7-9 hours per night).
- Avoid risky behaviors. This does not mean skydiving, but rather if you are a smoker, kick the habit. Limit alcohol consumption. Manage stress; make self-care a part of your life. Built-in relaxation, mediation, social time, and hobbies can all help reduce stress.
- Know the warning signs of heart attack and stroke. Chest pain, shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, numbness, and confusion can all be symptoms. Get prompt medical attention.
What is the best Valentine’s Day gift? The gift of health and fitness! Take some time to step up your game. Your heart will thank you, and so will your loved ones.
This lightly edited blog with image was originally published on kosher-fitness.com on February 10, 2026 by Rabbi Ungar.
