'Heart Walkers' Raise $1.2M For Cardiovascular Research
DETROIT (WWJ) - Over 20,000 people gathered at Ford Field for the American Heart Association's annual Heart Walk.
WWJ's Beth Fisher, who was emceeing the event, caught up with City of Detroit Mayor Dave Bing.
"We've got a city that's been recognized across the country as one of the top cities, from a health standpoint. And just to come out here and see so many people interested and supporting... the volunteers are unbelievable, and that's whats going to bring our city back," Bing said, speaking on the importance of heart health.
Detroit's Heart Walk has raised over $1.2 million for heart disease research.
Speaking live on WWJ Newsradio 950, CEO of the American Heart Association Nancy Brown said it is important to do some cardio activity every day.
"Exercise can be as easy as walking every day. We certainly recognize that people who incorporate just 30 minutes of physical activity into their daily lifestyles can dramatically improve their cardiovascular health and coupling that with eating healthier can make a tremendous difference," Brown said. "So, today can be the day that people take their first step."
Brown said being smarter about the contents of the food you eat will also help in your battle against heart disease.
It is easier to track the foods you eat when you prepare them yourself, but what about when you're dining out?
"Within the next year or so, all restaurant chains that have more than 20 locations will be required to post the calorie content and nutrition content of the food that they serve. So, we really encourage all Americans to be wise about the food choices they're making," Brown said.
To learn more about heart health and the American Heart Association, visit www.heart.org.
