Former President Bill Clinton admits that stress was a large factor in his recent surgery to clear a clogged artery. However, he isn't going to stop working. Instead, he will try to manage his stress better with lifestyle changes including improving his diet and getting more sleep.

Five years ago, Clinton had quadruple bypass surgery. He considers his successful operation was a gift, and doesn't want to throw that life away by "being a vegetable."

It was one of the former bypasses that had become clogged, It's not uncommon for this to happen several years after the original surgery. Clinton, however, believes stress and lack of sleep contributed to the problem.

Referring to the earthquake in Haiti, Clinton said, "I didn't sleep much for a month, that probably accelerated what was already going on."

Clinton's recent heart problems emphasized the good being done by Healthier Generation, an alliance between the Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association. The mission of this collaboration is "to reduce the nationwide prevalence of childhood obesity by 2015 and to empower kids nationwide to make healthy lifestyle choices."

Former President Clinton praised the work of first lady Michelle Obama in the fight against childhood obesity.

Let us not forget that February is American Heart Month with an emphasis on diet, exercise, and adequate sleep.