5 ways an FSA can keep your heart healthy

Here's a sobering reality: Heart disease is among the leading causes of death for both men and women in America, but most of us don't see it coming. The American Heart Association reports that despite its deadly impact, many are unaware of or dismiss their own risk factors.

While February's American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day raise awareness for 28 days, your heart needs attention all year round. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, being overweight or obese, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. Small steps today can help prevent serious problems tomorrow — and your flexible spending account (FSA) can make it easier.

Here are 5 ways your FSA can help you stay heart healthy:

1. Monitor your heart health. In addition to scheduled annual physicals, speak with your doctor regularly to get a better idea of your overall health, stay informed, and know your risk factors (age, family history, sex, etc.). Worried about the costs of additional consultations with your doctor? Your FSA can be used to pay for out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles and copays.

To help keep track of your health in between doctor appointments, explore FSA eligible health services and products that monitor key body metrics at home. Browse our Eligibility List to find a huge range of eligible items and services.

2. Think about blood pressure. Getting regular blood pressure readings can play an important role in helping you stay on top of your heart health. And with a wide array of FSA eligible blood pressure monitors and other diagnostic tools, you can keep track of your levels at home or on-the-go, and alert your doctor if the need arises.

3. Make time for exercise and consume a healthy diet. Regular exercise combined with a well-balanced diet low in saturated fats is proven to contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

And if you suffer from sore muscles or joints post-workout? You can get back in the game faster with drug-free products that target and tackle those aches.

4. Stop smoking. Smoking can increase your risk for heart disease, but quitting smoking can be hard. Luckily, many FSA eligible smoking cessation aids exist, including nicotine replacement products like patches, gum, and lozenges – all designed to support you when you’re ready to quit.

5. Relax and de-stress. Stress can take a toll on your heart, so take time away from your busy schedule to enjoy a low-stress hobby, like yoga, meditation, reading, or walking. Pro tip: Aid your recovery with products that soothe sore joints, restore tired muscles, and revitalize your aching body. Or just kick it ‘old school’ and take a long hot bath.

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