While in her early 30’s, six-time Grammy® award winner Toni Braxton was diagnosed with pericarditis, a dangerous inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart.
“I was actually performing in the Broadway show Aida about four years ago and I was changing costumes, about to do my big number before intermission, when I started feeling really lightheaded. I didn’t know what was wrong with me,” Toni recalls.
“As a survivor of heart disease, I am proud to work with Campbell to support the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women Movement to raise awareness and funds for a cause that is quite literally close to my heart,” said Braxton. “When I was diagnosed, I had to make important, long-term diet and lifestyle changes. I hope my involvement with this campaign will emphasize the importance of identifying and reducing heart disease risk factors and motivate others to take action to protect their health.”
Toni Braxton has recently ceased all performances to focus solely on her health.
TONI’S TIPS FOR LOVING YOUR HEART
Make diet and lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk factors for heart disease.
Take a personal pledge to fight heart disease and show the world your commitment
Tell the women you care about how they can prevent heart disease, too.
5 SIMPLE WAYS TO LOVE YOUR HEART
1) Celebrate with a checkupLet each birthday remind you that it’s time for your yearly physical and a talk with your doctor about how you can reduce your risk for heart disease.
2) Get off the couchWork up to at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Step, march, jog in place—you can even do it while watching TV.
3) Quit smoking in four stepsCan’t go “cold turkey”? Cut the number of cigarettes you smoke each day in half; then cut that number in half; cut it in half again; finally, cut down to zero!
4) Drop a pound or twoBy cutting out 500 to 1,000 calories a day you can lose up to two pounds per week, and gradually bring yourself closer to a heart-healthy weight.
5) Become a salt detectiveCheck out the Nutrition Facts panel on packaged foods to see how much sodium (salt) they contain. Aim for a total intake of no more than 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon of salt) per day.
