Welcome to our health topic for February — heart health. You can help avoid future heart problems by making healthy changes today. And the same habits that help keep your heart strong also reduce your risk for other conditions — another good reason to take these health tips to heart. Creating new fitness habits can also support your health goals and keep your heart healthy.
Additional resources can be found by visiting Choose Better Site
Monthly Challenge
The February challenge is “Move It”. The Move It challenge invites you to take 5,000 steps a day 3 times per week for 4 weeks! Walking 5,000 steps in a day is only 2.5 miles, the trick is doing it! That’s the habit this challenge will build…a minimum amount of activity during the month. Moving will help you feel better, look better and be happier! You can make this challenge a lot easier if you have a step track which you can download on your phone or use a simple pedometer. Each day is a fresh start to a healthier you!
Know your numbers
Get regular screenings with your doctor to keep tabs on your blood pressure and body mass index (BMI). Blood pressure over 120/80 and BMI of 25 or higher are both linked to increased risk for heart disease and stroke.
Stand up for your health
The more you sit, the higher your risk for heart problems. Try standing when you’d normally sit, like when you’re watching TV — or setting a reminder on your phone to get up and move once an hour.
Get the facts on fats
Some fats are healthier than others. Unsaturated fats like olive oil and avocado are considered superfoods you should eat often — whereas you should limit saturated fats like butter, and avoid trans fats altogether.
For more information visit kp.org/heart
National COVID-19 Vaccine Information Hotline
To efficiently serve the high volume of members calling to find out the latest COVID-19 vaccine information, Kaiser has launched a national hotline with recorded answers to frequently asked questions.
Here’s what you should know:
- The national, 24/7 COVID-19 vaccine information hotline phone number is 855-550-0951.
- Callers will get a recorded message with the latest vaccine information, available in English and Spanish.
- The recording will be updated when new information is available.
For more information visit COVID-19 Updates
Social health supports your total health
When you think about health, you might think of doctor visits and medicine. But what about access to healthy food? Or a safe place to live? Good health requires more than just health care. You need to be supported in mind, body, and spirit.
There are 3 elements that support your total health — and they’re all connected.
- Physical health is the health of your body.
- Mental health is the health of your mind.
- Social health is being able to take care of your basic needs — having a safe place to live, nutritious food, and positive relationships.
At Kaiser Permanente, we know these things are an important part of improving the total health of our members. You can count on us to connect you to the social health resources you need to live well and thrive. If you need support, we’re here to help. Thrive Local Connections is dedicated to connecting you to social services in your community. You’ll talk to a specialist who will help you find community resources in your area. Get started by calling 1-800-443-6328 (TTY 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in your time zone.
More information can be found by visiting kp.org/socialhealth
Combat the quarantine blues – mental health and wellness apps
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Digital apps for mindfulness, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy can offer significant help during these uncertain times. They’re not intended to replace treatment or advice, but they can help you build resilience, set goals, and take meaningful steps toward becoming a healthier, happier you. Access the apps or find other helpful resources by visiting kp.org/selfcareapps.
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