Two key concepts from the annual Mercy Heart Institute Cardiology Update seminar.

1. Regular, moderate exercise will decrease your risk of all cardiovascular events by 50%.
2. Obesity is a risk factor for Atrial Fibrillation.

What caught my attention about these two statements is that they are related to personal choice. These two simple sentences reiterate that we have a role in our state of health. Both are connected, as obesity is related to level of physical activity, in addition to how much and what types of foods we choose.

All cardiovascular events means heart attack, stroke, and sudden death. Secondary health consequences are diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and grumpiness.

Obesity is at epidemic proportions in our country. Of all the health consequences I am aware of related to becoming overweight and obese, learning that there is a causation to Atrial Fibrillation was new knowledge for me.  (read more about Atrial Fibrillation at http://tiny.cc/zrHN6)  A Fib can lead to stroke which is a devastating, life altering cardiovascular event.

Choosing to eat well and maintain a routine physical activity program are key components of your optimal health endeavor.

What type of activity are you going to enjoy today?