Youth Guide
Why Start With Youth?
There is a common misconception that heart disease is something only older adults need to worry about, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Many of the habits that shape heart health start early in life, and the choices young people make now can have a lasting impact. In fact, up to 80% of heart disease is preventable with healthy behaviors. That’s why prevention must begin in youth, when building strong habits is easier and more effective than trying to reverse harmful ones later in adulthood, which would be counterproductive. Empowering young people with knowledge and tools to care for their hearts today is one of the smartest strategies for lifelong wellness.
Small Changes, Big Impact: Tools for a Healthy Life
To help you take charge of your heart health, we’ve gathered a set of interactive tools and practical resources designed just for youth. Click around, explore, and find what works best for you!
Nutrition
A balanced, heart-healthy diet fuels your body and supports healthy cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight, key factors in preventing heart disease. Choosing nutrient-rich foods early in life builds lifelong habits that protect your heart.
Physical Activity
Regular movement strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and reduces risk factors like high blood pressure and obesity. Even small, consistent efforts like walking or dancing can make a big difference over time.
Mental Health & Sleep
Chronic stress, poor sleep, and unmanaged mental health can strain your heart and increase risk of disease. Prioritizing rest and emotional well-being helps regulate your body’s systems and supports long-term heart health.
Explore our Youth Heart Health Resource Guide, developed in collaboration with the New York State Public Health Association (NYSPHA).
This comprehensive guide features curated information on lifestyle medicine, youth-focused programs, public health organizations, research and advocacy opportunities, professional networks, conferences, journals, podcasts, and recommended reading. It also includes tools and resources specifically for educators and parents—something for everyone committed to supporting youth heart health.
Introducing…
The Heartline
Our bi-annual digital newsletter, the Heartline, brings together engaging and accessible stories, resources, and insights on heart disease prevention for youth. Each issue includes research highlights, expert interviews, lifestyle medicine tips, culturally informed wellness practices, and interactive features.
Here is our Summer 2025 Edition.
