News Center

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Variety of free heart health, nutrition classes offered throughout May

INDIANAPOLIS – Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center is offering a full range of free classes focused on cardiovascular health and wellness throughout May.

Call 317-782-4422 or go on-line at MyHeartCare.net to register for any of the classes, which include:

Aneurysms: Pay attention before it’s too late
Thursday, May 15, 6:30 p.m.
UnaVie Cardiology Center
2451 Intelliplex Dr.  Shelbyville

Abdominal aortic aneurysms, also known as AAA, are uncommon but usually deadly.  They develop slowly and usually have no symptoms, but when the weakened walls of the artery collapse, there is little recourse. That’s why knowing your risk for AAA is so important.

In some cases, the condition is genetic, but if you smoke, have high blood pressure or cholesterol you may be at risk as well. Charles Kiell, MD, will discuss risks and symptoms of AAA and how St. Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center vascular surgeons are monitoring patients at risk and are using new materials to repair aneurysms before they rupture.

Treatment options for atrial fibrillation (A-fib)
Thursday, May 8, 6:30 p.m.
Clarion Hotel
2480 Jonathan Moore Pike, Columbus
Refreshments served at 6 p.m.

Atrial fibrillation is a condition where the heart beats irregularly at a high rate. If severe, this condition can lead to heart attack, stroke or death. Cardiologist John Moore III, MD, and cardiothoracic surgeon Marc Gerdisch, MD, will discuss the current medical and surgical treatments for atrial fibrillation and who should be treated.

Fitness Tips
Thursday, May 1 at 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis Health-Mooresville (1201 Hadley Road) Register here>
Thursday, May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center (8111 S. Emerson Ave.) Register here>
Being fit is more than being thin.  Research shows that no matter what you weigh, increasing your fitness helps your heart.  Discover that exercise can be healthy and fun.  Learn how to set up a schedule for yourself.

Flavorful Cooking Tips
Tuesday, May 6, 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis-Mooresville Register here>
Wednesday, May 21, 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center (8111 S. Emerson Ave.) Register here>
Healthy cooking leads to a healthy life.  Adding herbs and spices to your cooking increases the flavor and enjoyment of the meals.  Learn how to choose the right ingredients that pump up the nutritional value and flavor of your favorite recipes in this class.  Recipe substitutions and cooking techniques will be discussed.

Healthy Dining Out Tips
Tuesday, May 20, 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis-Mooresville (1201 Hadley Road) Register here>
Americans eat nearly half their meals away from home.  How can you control what you eat when you don’t cook for yourself?  Learn how to make wise menu selections and eat smart while dining out.

Reduce Stress
Tuesday, May 13, 6:30 p.m.at the Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center (8111 S. Emerson Ave.) Register here>
Negative stress causes changes in lifestyle and behavior, which may lead to unhealthy choices.  Learn to identify the causes of stress in your life and techniques to decrease your stress which can improve your health!

Savvy Shopping
Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. at Southport Meijer (5325 E. Southport Road) Register here>

With all the new and changing products on the shelves, grocery shopping can be overwhelming.  Learn where to find the healthy foods and how to avoid packaging tricks commonly used to market foods.  Discover how food labels make you a smarter shopper.