It's that time of year again when love is in the air, and the Douglas County Health Department is reminding us it's not just romance that should get our pulses racing, our heart health deserves attention too. Despite the county's reputation as one of the nation's healthiest, local public health data have shown a concerning uptick in heart disease since 2012, according to Douglas County.

American Heart Month this February comes with a hearty dose of advice for residents looking to improve their cardiovascular health. The key message? Small lifestyle tweaks can lead to significant health benefits, and no, we're not just talking about throwing on the sneakers and hitting the gym.

Some of the practical steps recommended include incorporating fruit or veggies into every meal, choosing water over high-calorie drinks, and opting for more physical exertion in everyday routines like parking further away, or taking the stairs. These suggestions might not sound revolutionary, but they can knock heart disease off its perch as America's No. 1 killer, as noted by Douglas County.

Getting a handle on your cholesterol and blood pressure is another piece of the advice puzzle. The Douglas County Health Department urges locals to get these checked and then actually have a conversation with a doctor about what the numbers mean. And let's not forget stress, it's not just a buzzkill, it's a heart health hazard, acknowledging the benefits of music, calm breathing, and, a solid sleep regimen for a healthier ticker.

As for those looking to ditch the smoking habit, the county health department is offering a helping hand with resources listed on their website. All these initiatives align with the Public Health Improvement Plan's focus on chronic disease prevention.