Heart-Healthy Hauls: 3 Ways To Protect Your Heart On The Road

Life is undeniably precious, yet it sometimes takes a sudden health scare like a heart attack or stroke to remind us of its fragility. The good news? Experts estimate that close to 80% of heart disease cases are preventable. At Lee-Smith, we understand the unique challenges faced by long-haul truckers in maintaining heart health on the road. But fear not, because there are simple changes you can start making today to keep your ticker in tip-top shape.

1. Watch What You Eat

Maintaining a healthy diet on the road can feel like walking a tightrope without a safety net. The temptation to veer off course, whether by indulging in a candy bar or grabbing a cheeseburger at a truck stop, lurks around every corner. However, prioritizing heart-healthy foods is crucial, especially since truck drivers are twice as likely to be obese compared to people in other professions, according to the CDC. Obesity significantly increases your risk of heart disease. 

Next time you make a stop, opt for heart-healthy choices like fresh fruits, nuts, air-popped popcorn, and whole-grain peanut butter crackers. Choose grilled over fried foods whenever possible. To help you stay on track, utilize resources like the American Heart Association’s handy Heart-Check Digital Grocery List, which features over 800 foods and can be accessed on the association’s website. 

2. Get Active

How much exercise do you get per week? If you answered less than 2.5 hours, then it’s time to get moving. According to a CDC survey, three out of four truck drivers reported exercising less than the recommended amount.  Regular exercise is an essential part of living a heart-healthy lifestyle. The CDC emphasizes that meeting the recommended weekly physical activity guidelines not only improves sleep quality and enhances alertness behind the wheel but also reduces the risk of accidents.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can work exercise into your daily routine on the road. Utilize truck and rest stops to increase your step count, and consider packing dumbbells and resistance bands for long trips. Joining a national gym chain is another option, providing access to facilities and amenities like hot showers. 

3. …& Breathe

Before reading further in this section of our blog, we invite you to take 60 seconds to breathe deeply. Feel more relaxed? We hope so. Stress is an inevitable part of life for many. According to The American Insititute of Stress, over 50% of Americans are stressed at some point during the day. Stress wreaks havoc on your health, particularly your heart. 

Engaging in activities like calling loved ones, solving crossword puzzles, or exercising regularly are great coping alternatives. Seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial too. Thanks to technology, you can access counseling services from anywhere. If your employer allows it, bringing a pet on the road with you can boost your mood and reduce loneliness. Prioritize your mental health for a healthier heart.

One Last Word

Drivers, February marks American Heart Month – a time to show your heart some love. Take proactive steps to care for yourselves because we want you to live long, healthy lives. For more heart-healthy tips and resources, visit the American Heart Association’s website.