New Horizons Healthcare’s Healthy Heart Workshops new guidelines mean that anyone with blood pressure higher than 130/80 may now have hypertension, or high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Previously, the threshold was 140/90. Lifestyle modifications for heart health include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and a diet comprised of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy, as well as lowering sodium intake.
New Horizons Healthcare’s Healthy Heart Workshop will provide information on blood pressure monitoring, healthy eating, and ways to combat diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity. The free workshop will take place on February 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 11:00am-12 noon at New Horizons Healthcare’s main clinic at 3716 Melrose Ave., in NW Roanoke during February’s American Heart Month.
“We realize that many patients and individuals in our community may have questions about what the new guidelines mean for them,” said Donna Whitehead at New Horizons Healthcare. “This workshop will address these questions while providing a course of action if you or someone you know has high blood pressure.”
The Healthy Heart Workshop is presented by Donna Whitehead, R.N., B.S.N., Health Educator and Nicole Jones, LPN/Patient Care Coordinator at New Horizons Healthcare. Margarita Cubas, Nutritionist for Virginia Extension Office at Virginia Tech, will present sessions on healthy eating, including the benefits of eating chocolate in moderation, and fun fitness exercises. Special incentives for participants to attend all sessions include an opportunity to win gift cards and free tickets to Star City Slam & Celebrity Cheerleading, New Horizons Healthcare’s signature fundraising event on June 16.
To register, contact Donna Whitehead at 540-362-0360 ext. 218 or Nicole Jones 540-362- 0360 ext. 217.
New Horizons Healthcare, a non-profit community based family health center, is dedicated to providing solutions to community healthcare challenges, including the uninsured and undeserved, by offering high quality and affordable medical, behavioral health, dental, and pharmacy services.
