By Neil Doyle

February is National Heart Month and OSF St. James in Pontiac has some tips on how you can keep your heart healthier.

Wellness Coordinator Matt Janus told WJEZ’s Todd Wineburner the best way to start is by looking at the risk factors you can control.

“Some risk factors we don’t have any control over are how old you are or if you have a family history of heart disease,” he said. “But if you work on things you can control like getting exercise, following a heart-healthy diet, and meeting with your primary care provider that will go a long way towards preventing heart disease.”

A heart-healthy diet means avoiding foods that are high in sodium, saturated, and trans fats. It includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and leaner meats, according to Janus.

Feb. 7 is also National Wear Red Day to bring greater attention to heart disease awareness as the leading cause of death for Americans.

More tips for keeping your heart healthy are available on www.osfhealthcare.org/saint-james/