5 ways an FSA can keep your heart healthy

Heart disease is among the leading causes of death for both women and men in America. Yet according to the American Heart Association, it’s commonly overlooked by average Americans as a major health threat.

Though American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day are observed in February to raise awareness, the fight against heart disease is a year-round effort. 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. Using your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is a great way to stay on top of your heart health.

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

1. Monitor your heart health. Schedule annual physicals and visit your doctor regularly to get a better idea of your overall health, stay informed, and know your risk factors (age, family history, sex, etc.). Your FSA can be used to pay for out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles and copays.

Browse our Eligibility List to find eligible health services as well as products to help keep track of your health in between appointments, like the Full Body Analysis Scale from Caring Mill™ by Aura.

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. At-home blood pressure monitors and many other diagnostic tools, like the OMRON 5 Series Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor, are FSA eligible purchases.

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? Stay on the move and away from sprains or pains with a weighted heating pad.

4.Stop smoking. Smoking can increase your risk for heart disease, but smoking cessation programs and products (including over-the-counter options) are FSA eligible.

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: End your day with a lavender-infused Bed Buddy at Home Comfort Wrap to soothe sore joints, restore tired muscles, and revitalize your senses.