As we reflect on American Heart Month, a time when our country recognizes the importance of and raises awareness for heart health, Texas Health encourages our communities to consider ways we can all put healthy habits into practice year-round.

We sat down with cardiologist Brandie Williams, M.D., a practitioner with Texas Health Physicians Group who is on the medical staffs at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospitals in Fort Worth, Southwest Fort Worth and Stephenville and asked her to share her expertise when it comes to staying heart healthy and reducing the risk of heart-related disease.

Q: What key factors do you educate your patients on when it comes to heart health? What common issues do you see in your community?

Raising my family and caring for my patients in Stephenville has really given me an inside look at the common diagnoses that are affecting our community such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease and arrythmias. I speak with my patients about cardiovascular disease, stroke and rhythm issues of the heart, such as atrial fibrillation. I always encourage daily exercise and finding ways to reduce stress.

Q: You mentioned reducing stress as something you address with your patients. How does stress affect your heart?

Stress may lead to high blood pressure and over time this can cause increased risk for heart attack and stroke. Stress can sometimes lead to bad lifestyle choices such as smoking and overeating.

Q: What healthy eating habits do you recommend?

I talk to my patients about a heart healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Following the Mediterranean diet is a great way to incorporate healthy fats and plant-based foods into your daily routine. I also encourage patients to avoid fried foods and foods high in salt or sugar.

Q: In addition to making healthy food choices, what are some lifestyle habits we can develop to keep our hearts healthy?

I encourage my patients to walk daily and, when possible, get in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week. We also discuss ways to reduce stress such as yoga and activities with friends and family. These are practices I work to implement in my daily life as well.

Q: What is one thing you wish everyone knew about heart health? Do you have a favorite heart health tip?

I hope that people continue to pay attention to their body and symptoms they may have. If something doesn’t feel right such as chest pain, shortness of breath or palpitations, they should reach out to their primary care physician or cardiologist for evaluation. Waiting could lead to a delay in treatment and even possibly a heart attack or stroke.

My favorite tip is to stay active and walk daily, even if it’s for just 10-15 minutes. I talk to my patients about watching their salt intake and trying to avoid foods high in salt such as peanuts, popcorn, chips, Mexican food and soups. I let them know that they can eat these foods but should do so in moderation. Diets high in salt can lead to water retention and elevated blood pressure, which can ultimately affect the heart.

For more information about caring for your heart, please take a look at our Heart & Vascular resources.

[1] National Institutes of Health, Risk of developing heart failure in rural areas vs. urban