Ah February! It’s that sweet time of year when our thoughts turn to roses, romance and chocolate hearts. American Heart Month is also a wonderful time to appreciate the daily beat of your own heart and to renew your personal commitment to the basics of a heart-smart lifestyle.

“February is a great month to discover how delicious and enjoyable healthy choices can be,” says registered dietitian Crystelle Fogle of the Cardiovascular Health Program for the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. “To celebrate Heart Month, hospitals, health departments and fitness centers all across Montana will offer free and low-cost opportunities to learn the latest about nutrition and fitness for the whole family,” Fogle said. “Many groups will also feature screenings for stroke and heart disease risk factors, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels.”

The good news is that heart-smart choices are also effective in preventing stroke, diabetes, cancer and other conditions. The basics are all the same: a nutrient-rich, low-fat eating style; 30 to 60 minutes of daily physical activity; maintaining a healthy weight for your body type; and not smoking. These same healthy habits will also help you feel your best and be more productive at both work and play. As program manager for the cardiovascular health rogram, Fogle coordinates statewide efforts to prevent heart disease and stroke in a variety of settings, including worksites and health care. “Montana is fortunate to have top-notch hospital programs for people with cardiovascular disease,” she said. “We also have many healthcare providers who donate time to educate people about preventing heart problems before they need medical intervention.”

Here are two Billings examples of educational Heart Month events:

• Walk N Talk with the Doc: For nearly four years, Dr. Cheryl Cook has been hosting free 30-minute walks, co-sponsored by St. Vincent Healthcare and MSU-B. Every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., walkers get a daily dose of activity and a chance to talk informally with experts about their health concerns. During Heart Month, the walks will feature cardiac physicians from the Montana Heart Institute and Yellowstone Heart Center.

• Heart-Smart Eating for a New Decade: On Feb. 4 at the Billings Clinic, registered dietitian Dayle Hayes and Sodexo Innovations Chef Mark Perez did a Stir Up a Tasty Rainbow of Health. Attendees enjoyed a light stir-fry dinner and explored tasty, easy, nutrient-rich food choices for every meal. Other February events include presentations on exercise, stress reduction,and understanding risk factor numbers.

“For Heart Month programs in your community, check the newspaper and hospital Web sites,” Fogle said. “If you live out of town or cannot attend events, there are many excellent resources available for free, online and by phone. Here are three places to get the information and tools you need to be sweeter to your heart.”

• American Heart Association: Life’s Simple 7 (http://mylifecheck.heart.org/) focuses on small changes.

• Montana Tobacco QUIT LINE: Offers personalized free help to stop smoking at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

• Eat Right Montana: Serves up monthly packets with helpful tips and delicious heart-healthy recipes for free download at:www.eatrightmontana.org/eatrighthealthyfamilies.htm.