The statistics on heart disease are grim, it is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S., and one in four deaths are caused by heart disease each year. However, the good news is that heart disease can often be prevented through lifestyle choices. Here are a few tips for boosting the health of this important organ—during February and always

- Reduce salt intake. High sodium consumption is linked to higher blood pressure. To add flavor to your foods, consider swapping out the salt for spices—particularly those with anti-inflammatory properties, like ginger, turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon.

- Get moving. Regular, moderate physical activity is essential for a healthy heart. Ideally, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise—such as walking briskly, running, swimming, or cycling—five days per week. In addition, try to avoid sitting for long periods of time. If your job keeps you at a desk all day, consider investing in a sit-stand desk or implementing walking meetings in your workplace.

- Track your stats. Having an idea of where you stand as far as heart health is the first step to making improvements. Start a log in which you record your blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, and even your dietary habits and physical activity. Set goals for yourself for improving these metrics, and monitor your progress as you work towards them.

- Manage stress. Stress is a normal, inevitable part of life—but when managed improperly, it can erode your health and happiness over time. From quiet meditation to hitting the gym to spending time in nature, there are numerous ways to temporarily disconnect from the hectic modern world and lower stress levels. Protect your heart health by finding a method that works for you and making it a regular part of your life.

- Avoid unhealthy fats. Not all fats are bad for your health—some may even be beneficial. Specifically, saturated fats, such as those found in red meat or full-fat dairy products, and trans fats, which often come from partially hydrogenated oils, may be harmful. On the other hand, unsaturated fats—particularly those composed of omega-3 fatty acids, which come from sources like salmon, tuna, walnuts, and flaxseed—actually improve heart health.

Sources: halthfinder.gov & heartfoundation.org.au

If you are hoping to capitalize on the prospect of a home sale this spring, now is the time to ensure that your property is poised to attract buyers. Here a few strategies to ease the process:

• Consult with your realtor to learn about the market conditions in your specific area. Some "spring" markets begin as early as February, while others do not pick up speed until April or even May. Your agent will be able to advise you on the optimum time to list and will provide you with other information, such as predictions for the strength of the market in your area this season.


• Begin with the right listing price. At any time of the year, it is critical to set an initial listing price that accurately reflects your home's value in the current market. If buyers overlook your home because it carries an overly ambitious price tag, your listing may quickly grow stagnant and be surpassed in favor of the newest inventory on the market.


• List early, when competition is lower. The spring real estate market may quickly become saturated with homes for sale. By listing early in the season or just before it begins, your home will enjoy a greater chance of attracting buyers' attention.


• Give your yard a spring makeover. As the weather warms and the landscape blossoms, buyers will be most drawn to properties that enable them to picture themselves enjoying the outdoors. Facilitate this vision by adorning your property with brightly colored plants and well-maintained, ready-to-use outdoor living spaces.


• Consider obtaining an inspection before a buyer makes an offer or even before listing your home. If an inspection reveals problems with a house, buyers may become alarmed and back out of the sale, causing the seller to lose valuable time on the market. Therefore, it is best to be aware of, and rectify if possible, potential issues before an offer is at stake.


• Spring cleaning takes on a new meaning if you are trying to sell your home at this time of year. Remember that buyers will be deterred by clutter or less-than-spotless conditions. First impressions are key, so getting your home in prime condition early in the process will increase your chances of eliciting an offer.


• Prepare for a quick sale. While there are no guarantees about what the market will be like from year to year, some spring markets have been characterized by dizzyingly rapid sales and even bidding wars. As a seller, you may want to begin packing and planning your move while your home is still on the market.