Store supports healthy hearts

JACKSON - The White Butterfly, 200 North County Line Road, is joining the American Heart Association in an effort to raise $25 million in 2007.

"On Feb. 2, Go Red For Women's Day, we are asking residents to purchase a $5 red dress pin to help the American Heart Association reach their goal," White Butterfly co-owners Michelle Katz and Michael Kafton said. "The money will go for heart disease research and education programs that will reduce the incidence of heart disease which is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States."

Katz said she is excited to help spread the word about the importance of having a healthy diet, exercise and regular medical checkups since both she and Kafton have had personal experiences with the ravages of heart disease on families.

"We all need to make a promise to ourselves on 'Wear Red Day' that we should love ourselves and do everything possible to reduce our risk factors from the deadly disease," said Katz.

To reduce risk factors, the American Heart Association recommends a regular medical checkup; having blood pressure and cholesterol checked; following doctor's recommendations regarding diet and exercise; taking prescribed medications as directed; quitting smoking; getting at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day; eating a heart-healthy diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grain foods and fish; limiting foods which are high in saturated fats and dietary cholesterol; limiting salt intake to 2,300 mg of sodium daily; and if you drink, do so in moderation. Non-pregnant women should have no more than one drink a day.

For more information, visit

goredforwomen.org and click on Go Red Heart Checkup. Follow the steps for a personalized heart-health assessment.