American Heart Month: History, Heart Health, and How Ů HEART Helps You Take Action
American Heart Month inspires heart-healthy habits
February is American Heart Month, a powerful nationwide reminder that protecting your heart is one of the most important health decisions you will ever make. This annual observance shines a light on heart disease—the leading cause of death in the United States—and encourages every person to take proactive steps toward a stronger, healthier cardiovascular future.
What Is American Heart Month?
American Heart Month is a national health campaign every February dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease, promoting prevention, and inspiring people to adopt heart-healthy habits. It brings together healthcare professionals, nonprofits, wellness brands, workplaces, and communities to highlight both the risk and the hope: most heart disease is preventable with the right lifestyle and medical support.
During American Heart Month, you will see campaigns about:
● Knowing your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight).
● Learning the signs of heart attack and stroke and when to call 911.
● Making sustainable changes to nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management to support cardiovascular health.
It is not just a public health message—it is an invitation to take control of your heart health story.
The History of American Heart Month
How American Heart Month Began
American Heart Month has its roots in the national fight against cardiovascular disease that intensified in the mid-20th century. As heart disease rose to become the top cause of death, medical leaders and advocacy organizations pushed for a focused awareness effort each year.
In 1963, President Lyndon B. Johnson issued a landmark proclamation designating February 1964 as the first American Heart Month. He urged Americans to “give heed to the nationwide problem of the heart and blood-vessel diseases” and to support efforts to prevent and treat cardiovascular conditions. Johnson’s call to action recognized not only the human toll of heart disease, but also the economic impact of people becoming sick or dying in their most productive years.
Since that first proclamation, every U.S. president has continued the tradition, issuing an annual statement recognizing February as American Heart Month and encouraging people, communities, and organizations to participate. Over the decades, this observance has evolved into a powerful annual platform that combines education, research advocacy, and real behavior change campaigns.
Why American Heart Month Still Matters Today
Even with advances in medicine, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States for men, women, and most racial and ethnic groups. Recent data show that cardiovascular diseases—including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke—claim close to one in three deaths nationwide. That means almost every family has been touched by heart disease in some way.
Yet there is encouraging news: health experts estimate that up to 80% of heart disease and stroke could be prevented through lifestyle changes and managing key risk factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, tobacco use, and diabetes. American Heart Month continues to matter because it:
● Keeps heart health at the center of public conversation, rather than in the background.
● Reminds people to schedule checkups and screenings they may have delayed.
● Motivates communities to host walks, screenings, CPR trainings, and educational events that save lives.
In other words, American Heart Month turns awareness into action—and action into longer, healthier lives.
The State of Heart Health in America
Heart Disease by the Numbers
To understand why American Heart Month is so important, it helps to look at the numbers behind heart disease.
● Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for about one in every five deaths.
● In 2023, nearly 919,000 people in the U.S. died from cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.
● Coronary heart disease—the most common type of heart disease—killed more than 370,000 people in 2022.
● One person in the U.S. dies from cardiovascular disease roughly every 34 seconds.
Beyond human lives, the economic cost is staggering. Between 2020 and 2021, heart disease-related healthcare services, medications, and lost productivity cost an estimated $417.9 billion. This is why prevention is not only a personal priority, but also a national one.
The Role of Risk Factors
Heart disease rarely appears out of nowhere; it typically develops over years due to a combination of lifestyle, health conditions, and genetics. Some major risk factors include:
● High blood pressure (hypertension), which damages arteries and makes the heart work harder.
● High LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, which contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
● Diabetes and prediabetes, which raise the risk of coronary artery disease and other complications.
● Obesity or excess weight, especially around the abdomen, which is linked to higher blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin resistance.
● Smoking or vaping, which harms blood vessels and reduces oxygen in the blood.
● Physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyles.
● Chronic stress, depression, and poor sleep, all of which can contribute to inflammation and unhealthy behaviors.
While you cannot change non-modifiable factors like age, sex, or family history, American Heart Month emphasizes that there is still a great deal you can control—starting with daily habits.
Why American Heart Month Is a Perfect Time to Reset
A Natural “Heart Health New Year”
February arrives just as many New Year’s resolutions begin to fade, making American Heart Month a perfect opportunity to refocus on what truly matters: long-term health. Instead of short-lived goals, the campaign encourages sustainable changes that support cardiovascular wellness.
Some practical ways to use the month as a reset include:
● Booking a comprehensive checkup to get your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar tested.
● Setting realistic activity goals, such as 20–30 minutes of brisk walking most days of the week.
● Choosing heart-smart meals with more plants, healthy fats, and fiber, and fewer ultra-processed foods.
● Evaluating your stress levels and creating a plan that might include mindfulness, therapy, or better boundaries.
Small steps, done consistently, protect your heart more effectively than short bursts of intense effort.
Community, Awareness, and the “Nation of Lifesavers”
American Heart Month is not just about individual change; it is about community-level action. Organizations like the American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health promote initiatives that encourage people to learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and recognize signs of cardiac arrest.
Recent campaigns have focused on creating a “Nation of Lifesavers” by teaching more people high-quality CPR and how to use automated external defibrillators (AEDs). When more bystanders know how to respond during a cardiac emergency, survival rates increase dramatically. This spirit of shared responsibility is at the heart of American Heart Month.
Lifestyle Foundations of a Heart-Healthy Life
Eat to Nourish Your Heart
A heart-healthy eating pattern does not have to be complicated, restrictive, or joyless. It emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods that support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight.
Key nutrition strategies include:
● Filling half your plate with colorful vegetables and fruits rich in fiber and antioxidants.
● Choosing whole grains like oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat instead of refined grains.
● Prioritizing lean protein sources such as beans, lentils, fish, poultry, tofu, and nuts.
● Using heart-friendly fats like olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds rather than trans fats and excess saturated fats.
● Reducing added sugars and limiting sodium by cooking more at home and reading labels carefully.
These changes support lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels, better blood sugar control, and more stable energy throughout the day—all essential for cardiovascular wellness.
Move More, Sit Less
Regular physical activity is one of the most powerful tools available for strengthening your heart. Movement helps:
● Improve circulation and vascular function.
● Lower blood pressure and resting heart rate over time.
● Enhance insulin sensitivity and support healthy body weight.
● Boost mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
Most guidelines suggest aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming) per week, plus muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. Even shorter bouts—10 minutes at a time—add up and make a difference when done consistently.
Stress, Sleep, and Emotional Wellness
Heart health is not only physical; it is deeply connected to mental and emotional well-being. Chronic stress increases stress hormones like cortisol, contributes to inflammation, and can lead to unhealthy coping behaviors such as overeating, drinking, or smoking.
Supporting your emotional health helps your heart through:
● Consistent, quality sleep (most adults need 7–9 hours per night). ● Stress-management practices like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or journaling.
● Seeking social support and professional help when facing anxiety, depression, or burnout.
Holistic heart health means caring for the whole person, not just blood pressure and lab results.
The Role of Targeted Supplementation in Heart Health
Where Supplements Fit In
Nutrition and lifestyle come first, but targeted supplementation can provide additional support—especially for people with specific risk factors or nutritional gaps. Quality cardiovascular-focused supplements may help support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, vascular function, and inflammation when used alongside a balanced diet and appropriate medical care.
Ů GEN is a wellness brand focused on high-purity, plant-based formulations that avoid fillers and prioritize science-backed ingredients. Its supplements are vegan, soy-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and delivered in plant-based capsules with a 90–99% purity rating, reflecting a commitment to clean, targeted nutrition. This approach aligns with the preventative, whole-person philosophy behind American Heart Month.
Introducing Ů HEART: Science-Backed Support for Cardiovascular Wellness
Ů HEART is a comprehensive heart health supplement developed in collaboration with world-renowned heart surgeon Dr. Allan Stewart. It is designed specifically to help address leading risk factors for heart disease, making it a powerful ally for individuals focused on proactive cardiovascular care during American Heart Month and beyond.
Ů HEART targets multiple dimensions of heart health, including:
● Cholesterol and blood pressure management.
● Inflammation and oxidative stress.
● Blood sugar and weight management support.
● Mental and emotional well-being.
● Vascular health and circulation.
The formula is structured as a two-bottle system—morning and evening—providing 50 days of support to integrate seamlessly into a daily wellness routine.
How Ů HEART Supports Key Heart Health Pillars
Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Support
Elevated cholesterol and high blood pressure are major modifiable risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Ů HEART is crafted to support healthy levels through a targeted blend of nutrients and botanicals.
Key ingredients include:
● DHA (Omega-3) and CoQ10, which provide foundational support for heart function and healthy cholesterol levels.
● Olive leaf extract, organic beet root powder, and hibiscus flower extract, which work together to support healthy blood pressure and vascular function.
By supporting healthier blood lipids and more relaxed, flexible blood vessels, these ingredients help create a more favorable environment for long-term heart health.
Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Chronic, low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress are deeply involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Ů HEART addresses these underlying drivers with evidence-informed ingredients.
The formula features:
● Curcumin, a compound from turmeric known for its anti-inflammatory properties, paired with BioPerine to enhance absorption and bioavailability.
● Antioxidants such as EGCG (from green tea), resveratrol, and vitamin C that help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage, including the processes that lead to arterial plaque buildup.
By supporting a healthier inflammatory and oxidative balance, Ů HEART complements lifestyle strategies like diet and exercise in protecting cardiovascular tissues.
Blood Sugar and Weight Management Support
Diabetes, insulin resistance, and excess body weight dramatically increase the risk of heart disease. Ů HEART includes ingredients designed to support healthy blood sugar balance and metabolism.
These include:
● Berberine, which has been studied for its role in supporting normal blood glucose and metabolic function.
● Gymnema sylvestre, a botanical traditionally used to support blood sugar regulation and cravings.
For people managing diabetes, prediabetes, or weight-related risk factors, these components can help complement medical treatment and lifestyle changes as part of a comprehensive heart health strategy.
Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Stress, anxiety, and depression are more than emotional experiences; they are recognized contributors to heart disease risk and poor outcomes. Ů HEART is unique in that it addresses this mind-heart connection directly.
The formula includes:
● Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb that supports the body’s stress response and may help improve resilience and calm.
● L-theanine, an amino acid associated with relaxed alertness and reduced stress without drowsiness.
● 5-HTP, a precursor to serotonin that supports mood balance.
By supporting emotional equilibrium and stress reduction, Ů HEART acknowledges the reality that heart health is shaped by both biology and psychology.
Heart-Strengthening Nutrients and Vascular Support
Healthy circulation, arterial function, and electrolyte balance are essential to heart performance. Ů HEART includes:
● Hawthorn and garlic powder, botanicals traditionally known for supporting heart function, arterial health, and circulation.
● Potassium chloride, which supports balanced electrolytes, vital for healthy heart rhythm and blood pressure.
● Pomegranate fruit powder and green coffee bean extract, which help promote nitric oxide synthesis and vascular dilation to support blood flow.
These ingredients work synergistically with the rest of the formula to reinforce everyday cardiovascular resilience.
Who Might Benefit Most from Ů HEART?
Ů HEART is designed for individuals who want to take a proactive, preventative approach to cardiovascular wellness, especially those with meaningful risk factors or family histories.
It may be particularly aligned with people who:
● Have a personal or family history of coronary artery disease.
● Have had previous stents, cardiac surgeries, blood clots, or past strokes.
● Are managing hypertension, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, or obesity.
● Live with high stress and want support for both physical and emotional aspects of heart health.
Ů HEART is crafted to integrate individual health details—including height, weight, and BMI—to better address obesity-related risk in the overall cardiovascular picture. As always, anyone with significant medical history or existing prescriptions should consult their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Ů GEN’s Wellness Philosophy and American Heart Month
Ů GEN’s broader philosophy aligns closely with the goals of American Heart Month: prevent disease whenever possible, prioritize clean and potent ingredients, and treat each person’s health as unique. The brand’s focus on:
● Plant-based, vegan formulas.
● No fillers or unnecessary additives.
● High-purity ingredients.
● Tailored, science-informed formulations.
reflects a prevention-first approach to wellness that goes beyond quick fixes and one-size-fits-all products. For those seeking to make American Heart Month more than just a date on the calendar, Ů HEART offers a practical, daily way to embody that commitment.
Action Steps to Honor American Heart Month
American Heart Month is most powerful when it moves from awareness into daily habit. Consider using February as your launchpad for sustainable, heart-centered actions such as:
● Scheduling a heart health checkup, especially if it has been more than a year.
● Learning your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI—and tracking progress over time.
● Making one nutrition upgrade at a time, like cooking a plant-forward dinner three nights per week.
● Committing to a realistic movement plan that fits your life and limitations.
● Exploring supportive tools like Ů HEART to complement your lifestyle and medical care, with guidance from a healthcare provider.
Your heart never takes a day off. American Heart Month is your reminder not to take your heart for granted.
FAQs About American Heart Month and Ů HEART
What is American Heart Month and why is it important?
American Heart Month is a nationwide observance every February dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease, promoting prevention, and encouraging people to prioritize cardiovascular health. It is important because heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, yet much of it is preventable through lifestyle changes and proactive care.
How common is heart disease in the United States?
Heart disease is extremely common and continues to be the top cause of death for men, women, and most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Recent statistics show that cardiovascular diseases are responsible for close to one in three deaths, with someone dying from cardiovascular disease approximately every 34 seconds.
What are the most important steps I can take during American Heart Month to protect my heart?
Some of the most impactful steps include getting your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checked; quitting smoking; moving more; and making dietary changes that emphasize whole, minimally processed foods. Managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and
following your healthcare provider’s recommendations—such as medications, screenings, or cardiac rehab—also play a crucial role in protecting your heart.
What is Ů HEART and how does it support heart health?
Ů HEART is a science-backed, multi-targeted heart health supplement developed in collaboration with renowned heart surgeon Dr. Allan Stewart. It is formulated to address key cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammation, blood sugar, weight management, vascular health, and emotional well-being through a blend of targeted nutrients and botanicals.
Who should consider taking Ů HEART?
Ů HEART is designed for adults who want proactive support for cardiovascular health, especially those with risk factors such as a family or personal history of heart disease, hypertension, elevated cholesterol, previous cardiac procedures, blood clots, or strokes. It may also be relevant for individuals managing diabetes, obesity, or high stress, but it should always be used as part of a comprehensive plan created with a healthcare professional.
Can a supplement like Ů HEART replace lifestyle changes or medications?
No—no supplement should replace fundamental lifestyle changes or prescribed medications for heart disease. Ů HEART is intended to complement, not substitute, a heart-smart lifestyle and medical care by providing targeted nutritional support for key cardiovascular pathways, and any changes to your regimen should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
