This Valentine’s Day we want to encourage you and your loved one to hold each other accountable when it comes to heart health. A happy, long life together starts with the body’s most important organ, so make sure you both are doing all you can to show it some love. Here we have outlined some hints to keep you and your Valentine’s hearts healthy year-round.

They way to anyone’s heart is through food, but not all foods are created equal regarding the heart. Choose a diet with foods that will provide the body with an adequate amount of B vitamins (especially folic acid), essential fatty acids, coenzyme Q-10, vitamin C, calcium/magnesium, resveratrol, L-carnitine, quercetin, polyphenols, monounsaturated fats, lycopene, potassium and fiber. Each of these nutrients plays an essential role in keeping our hearts in tip top shape and avoiding heart complications. If you find that you and/or your spouse’s diets are lacking in any of these think about starting a supplement regimen to make up for any deficits. Additionally, excessive salt, white bread, trans fats, saturated fats, and sugar should be avoided or strictly moderated for a heart healthy diet. Nothing says “romance” like a home cooked meal for your special someone, so consider loving them and their heart with these nutrients and a healthy recipe the next time you light the candles and set the table for two.

Most people don’t realize that the heart is not just an organ, but it is a muscle that needs to be exercised like any other skeletal muscle to remain strong and operational. There are a slew of cardio exercises and activities that can be done to promote heart health no matter your training level.  To keep each other accountable in your heart health journey, find a physical activity that you both love and can do together. Whether it’s tennis pairs, taking long walks, or training together for that hiking vacation, exercise is always more fun and more successful when you have someone by your side. Push each other to be your healthiest selves and make your hearts strong while spending time doing something you both enjoy together.

We all know that hydration is key for general health, but for the heart specifically, hydration aids in better blood circulation. When we are properly hydrated the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood throughout the body. Be your partner’s friendly, constant reminder to stay on top of their water intake. It is easy to go a day without drinking anything, but it is also easy to be intentional and encouraging to each other while stressing the importance of hydration and heart function. Just like the red roses you receive on Valentine’s Day, your heart needs water to thrive.

The last hint for you and your honey is to start your day with an Attitude of Gratitude. People who possess a positive outlook on life tend to be less stressed in general which is great for the heart. Share this attitude and love with your significant other and everyone you encounter. Our mission is to promote a healthy and prolonged life, but even so, life is too short to not spread love and happiness.

We hope these hints will lead you to a healthier lifestyle and relationship. Be sure to encourage the love of your life to visit their doctor for well visits frequently and to get the supplements and exercise they need to live a long, healthy life with you! Happy Valentine’s Day from your friends at Life Priority!