Keith Ahrens

Some ideas: No eating after 6pm and no nibbling while cooking. If your watching TV, move during the 2 minute commercial breaks. Take the stairs at work.

Park the car just a little further away. No finishing the kids’ meals. Drink a little more water. Eat an extra piece of fruit or serving of veggies. Take a look around and identify a few behaviors you can change this week.

Make at least one small commitment of change that will help your heart health. – Keith

“Everyone needs to find the inspiration and motivation that can flip the switch that will lead to the heart healthier life that we deserve. The thing is that you have to reach for the switch and flip it yourself. Others may inspire and motivate you, but you have to make the first move. I say, Turn It On” – Keith

“Unfortunately, I know first hand what its like to have heart disease and open-heart surgery as a result of not taking care of myself.  It can be a hard and challenging journey for many of us to a healthier life.  The one thing I’ve learned is that the hard days last as long as we allow them to last.  We can change our habits and make the right decisions on activity and nutrition.” – Keith

“Why should you be doing something to improve your heart health?  I want you to think about what’s in it for you?  Ask yourself this.  What one thing would you like to do or feel that you can’t do now or haven’t felt in years?” – Keith

“August 23, 2007, is the day I had my open-heart surgery. I remember as if it were yesterday. I would imagine all survivors could relate to how I feel. I’m more alive today than I’ve ever been. I’ve lost over 200 pounds (without surgery) and feel great. I exercise and try to eat heart healthy everyday. Each day presents new challenges and obstacles but I do my best. Everyday is the greatest day of my life.” – Keith

“Tomorrow’s a new day as is the next.  We decide how that day will go by our actions.  Plan ahead the night before.  Think Heart Health for the day and keep it in your mind.  Use little reminders such as notes to yourself to help keep you on track.  Make the right decisions and the momentum builds 1 minute, 1 hour, and 1 day at a time.  Make it your day:)” – Keith

“For many people their first Heart Attack or Stroke is their last. Sad … but true. Education, Awareness and Prevention are the tools we have to combat the deadly and often preventable diseases that cause heart attack and stroke.  Do something now; today, tomorrow and next week to positively impact your own life.  It’s a gift you will cherish forever.” – Keith

“If losing weight were so simple, there would be no obesity epidemic. There are no quick fixes and fads don’t work. Believe me, I’ve tried most them. The fact is that losing weight is very difficult for most of us. It’s hard but the rewards of shedding the excess pounds (even a few) have unparalleled health benefits. The best diet or fitness program is the one that you’ll do and stick with that is nutritionally balanced and safe.” – Keith

“Stress is certainly a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Reducing stress may be as beneficial as exercise and diet in preventing these diseases. Exercise, even short walks, and getting enough sleep may dramatically reduce stress in your life.” – Keith

I HATE Heart Disease! – Keith