Cupid has come and gone, but that’s no reason to stop thinking of your heart. Your heart health, that is.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. Sedentary lifestyles, poor eating habits, stress and more can all play a part. But take heart---there are some small changes you can make every day that can add up to big changes over time. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Literally. Sitting has been referred to as “the new smoking” when it comes to the detrimental effects it can have on our health. Most of us sit behind desks all day, but taking five or ten minutes every hour to stand up and move is a must. Walk around your building, the parking lot, or simply down the hall. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or park farther away from the building. Every step counts towards better heart health.

A heart healthy diet is one that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, wholesome whole grains, plenty of protein, as well as good fats. It is free from high sodium and sugar. Changing your diet can be hard, but making even one small change like swapping veggies and hummus for your chips and queso will add up. Get Your ZZZZs

In today’s busy world, being sleep deprived has become the status quo. But lack of sleep can result in poor food choices, raised stress levels, and other issues that can affect your overall health. Not to mention being too tired to exercise. To get better sleep, create a restful environment. Shut off electronics an hour before bedtime. Take a warm bath. Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature. And, if you still can’t turn off your brain, write down the things that are bothering you and then put them away until the morning.

These simple changes can not only improve your heart health, they can also increase your energy, improve your mood, and help you alleviate stress. Try incorporating one or two of these suggestions and see the difference for yourself.