February is American Heart Month

According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular diseases are our nation’s No. 1 killer. To urge Americans to join the battle against these diseases, the President has once again proclaimed February as “American Heart Month.” “Live Right with ShopRite,” is a lifestyle strategy by ShopRite supermarkets to help people with dietary needs. To make it easier to select those foods, color-coded shelf signs identify foods in various categories - such as those classified as organic, low in carbohydrates, natural - and coming soon, sugar free, low fat, fat free, low sodium, wheat free, and gluten free. In Orange County, Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis and St. Anthony Community Hospital in Warwick, will provide healthcare experts to make periodic visits to local ShopRite supermarkets. They will answer questions, distribute literature, conduct blood pressure screening, and offer advice on health related topics. On Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 2 to 5 p.m., medical professionals will be at the Chester ShopRite. Free blood pressure screenings will be offered. Barbara Demundo, director of cardiac outreach at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, will be on hand to provide information on the American Heart Association’s Healthy Heart program. The program is designed to help reduce major risk factors for heart disease. As well, expectant mothers will have an opportunity to meet St. Anthony’s maternity consultant Diane DeFreest, who will answer questions relating to pregnancy. On Feb. 20 they will visit Monroe ShopRite.