Go Red For Women&uot; is the American Heart Association’s nationwide movement that celebrates the energy and passion that have gone into wiping out heart disease. Thanks to the participation of millions of people across the country, the color red has become linked with the ability that all women have to improve their heart health and to live stronger, longer lives.

Too few people realize that heart disease is the number one killer of American women – and of men. But, the good news is that heart disease can largely be prevented. Go Red For Women supplies knowledge and the tools women need to take positive action to reduce their risks of heart disease and stroke and to protect their health.

It’s not hard to reduce your risk for heart disease. Start today with small, simple actions like these:

nLet each birthday remind you that it’s time for your yearly checkup and a talk with your doctor about how you can reduce your risk for heart disease.

nStep, march or jog in place for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. You can even do this while watching TV.

nCut the number of cigarettes you smoke each day in half; then, cut that number in half; cut it in half again; finally, cut it down to zero.

nCutting out just 200 to 300 calories a day – about one candy bar’s worth – can help you lose up to two pounds per week and gradually bring you closer to a heart-healthy weight.

n Check out the Nutrition Facts panel on packaged foods to see how much sodium (salt) they contain. Aim for a total intake of no more than 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon of salt) per day.

Schedule a Go Red health check with your health care provider about how factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, physical inactivity, obesity or diabetes affects your risk of heart disease.

For more information about your Go Red health check, please visit www.goredforwomen.org.

Visit the Go Red For Women online store at www.shopgored.com for Go Red merchandise, healthy living products and educational materials. Net proceeds from the sale of all items support Go Red For Women.