© Steven Fernandez



Wow, it's hot this summer! It's kept me indoors much more than I would have liked.

Beyond avoiding discomfort, we have to be heart smart. On the whole, heat makes your heart beat faster to help your body's cooling system work properly.

For those of Latin American heritage, it's especially important to baby your ticker. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease and stroke are the number one cause of death among Latinos and Hispanic Americans.

Be safe this summer:

* Drink lots of water
* Stay cool
* Eat heart smart foods