At JGM, the health and safety of our team members is our priority. Without a strong and healthy team, we cannot be the fastest, safest, and most effective fabricator and contractor in North America.
While our team members actively participate in health and safety trainings to learn more about preventing injuries on the job and spreading illnesses, an additional area we wanted to focus on is that of physical health. In honor of American Heart Month, check out these five ways you can look after your heart and live a healthy lifestyle.
Tip #1 – Get 30 Minutes of Physical Activity A Day
According to Healthline, higher levels of physical activity were associated with a 21 percent reduction in coronary heart disease (CHD) events for men and a 29 percent reduction of CHD events in women. Getting 30 minutes of physical activity per day can help lower cholesterol levels, decrease blood pressure, build muscle and bone strength, improve energy levels, manage weight, and so much more.
Make it a priority to incorporate 30 minutes of exercise into your routine. Whether you take a walk over your lunch break or go for a bicycle ride with your family in the evenings, regular physical activity plays a large role in heart health.
Tip #2 – Monitor What You Eat
When striving to live a healthier lifestyle and strengthen heart health, a good place to begin is by monitoring what you eat. Read the labels on all packaging and eliminate foods that are high in sugar, salt, and trans-fat. Adding fiber, oily fish, fruits, and vegetables to your diet will benefit heart health.
Understanding what is in your food will help you make healthier choices. However, before making any major changes to your diet, it is recommended you speak with a doctor.
Tip #3 – Manage Your Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is important to enhance overall heart health. According to John Hopkins Medicine, obesity increases blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of diabetes, which all can lead to heart disease. The more extra weight, the more risk.
By getting enough physical activity and eating a well-balanced diet, individuals can manage their weight. Additionally, for those struggling with weight loss, check out resources such as certified nutritionists and personal trainers to help meet your goal.
Tip #4 – Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol Use
Did you know smoking is one of the leading causes of coronary heart disease (CHD)? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tobacco can make blood sticky and more likely to clot, which can block blood flow to the heart and brain. Heart health will improve after an individual quits smoking, so the sooner one quits, the better for their heart.
Alcohol use should also be limited to protect the heart. Regularly drinking alcohol can not only negatively impact the liver, but also the heart since overuse can lead to weight gain.
Tip #5 – Get Enough Sleep
Sleep plays a critical role in keeping the heart healthy. One study performed by Doctor Marc Gillinov found individuals who sleep less than six hours each night are at a higher risk of having a heart attack compared to those who got six to eight hours of sleep each night.
In honor of American Heart Month, make sleep a priority. If you suffer from insomnia or sleep apnea, it is important to speak with your doctor.
Making Health & Safety Job #1
“At JGM, our team works hard to get the job done right for our clients. This means putting in long hours and traveling when needed. We understand firsthand just how busy life can be, but it is critical to take time for yourself and make the right lifestyle choices to ensure a healthy heart and mind for years to come.” -Rob Policastro, JGM’s health & safety manager
To learn more about JGM’s health and safety processes, procedures, and trainings, start a conversation with us today!