Healthy Hearts & Lungs 101

Dr. Kumari Adams, a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon at Trinity Health, dives into the essentials of heart and lung function, how these organs collaborate and what happens when issues arise. It’s also about empowering you to adopt heart-healthy habits to keep these vital organs in top shape. Watch the 13-minute video below and learn more about the Healthy Hearts & Lungs 101 program for 5th and 6th grade school groups.

How Do Your Heart and Lungs Work Together?

Your heart and lungs are an incredible team. When you breathe in, your lungs draw in oxygen, which travels through a network of airways and tiny air sacs called alveoli. This is where oxygen enters the bloodstream, and carbon dioxide, a waste product, leaves the blood to be exhaled. Once in the bloodstream, oxygen travels to the heart, which pumps it throughout your body, delivering the nutrients and energy you need to thrive. This continuous cycle keeps every cell in your body fueled and functioning.

Think of it like a subway system: your lungs are the turnstile where oxygen "pays its fare" to enter, while your heart is the central station directing traffic. Your blood vessels act as train tracks, delivering oxygen and nutrients to "stops" all around your body.

Why is Heart Health Important?

Our heart is a hardworking muscle, and like any muscle, it needs proper care and fuel to function well. Heart disease, however, can disrupt this balance, and it’s one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. When the heart’s blood supply is blocked, a heart attack can occur, which is a medical emergency. Maintaining heart health can help prevent this by keeping the heart and blood vessels clear and strong.

Lifestyle Habits for a Heart-Healthy Life

There’s good news: heart disease is often preventable through lifestyle changes! Here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet – Aim to "eat the rainbow" by choosing a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Fresh foods provide essential nutrients and are generally lower in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Try to shop around the outer edges of the grocery store, where you'll find fresh produce, dairy, and lean proteins.
2. Stay Active – Exercise is essential for heart health. It strengthens the heart, improves blood flow, and reduces stress. Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Simple activities like walking, dancing, and stretching can make a big difference.
3. Get Quality Sleep – Good sleep is essential for your heart and overall health. For children and teens, about 10 hours per night is recommended. Sleep allows your body to repair itself and helps you manage stress better.
4. Manage Stress – Find activities that help you relax and reduce stress. Whether it’s deep breathing, spending time with friends, or doing something creative, these activities can help keep your heart rate down and blood pressure in check.
5. Don’t Smoke – Smoking harms nearly every organ in your body, especially your heart and lungs. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting strategies and support options.

Why Prevention Matters

Heart disease often runs in families, so talk to your relatives about any health history that could impact you. Conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure are important risk factors to be aware of.

Your Heart & Lungs are Counting on You

Your body is an amazing machine, and you have the power to protect it. By making small, positive changes in your diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management habits, you’re investing in a healthier future for your heart and lungs.

At Trinity Health, we’re here to support your journey to a heart-healthy life. Let’s work together to build a foundation of habits that will keep your heart and lungs strong for years to come.