Eating for Your Heart's Health
February is American Heart Month, and you probably already know how important it is to exercise, refrain from smoking, and stay at a healthy weight to help your heart maintain its good health. But did you know that you can also increase your heart’s longevity by eating certain foods?
Try integrating one or more of these foods into your diet this month. Your heart will definitely, well, heart you for it.
Salmon. Personally, I hate the stuff, but that goes back a long way, due to some childhood trauma and salmon patties. But if you like fish, this is what your heart wants from your oceanic choices. Salmon is filled with omega-3 fatty acids, which aren’t only great for your ticker—they’re also good for brain power. And if you absolutely hate it (like I do!), try some tuna instead.
Red wine. Who couldn’t use more of this in their diet? It’ll add some flavanoids to your daily spread, helping to improve your HDL cholesterol. Drink up—but moderately, please. A glass a day is plenty. Not a drinker? Dark chocolate, tea, and soy milk are all good sources of flavanoids as well.
Flaxseed. Now this stuff, also a good source of omega-3s, I can tolerate. It’s actually quite delicious in oatmeal and salads, a great additive to any baked foods you might make, and full of fiber as well. Secretly dump some ground flaxseed in your homemade cookies or cupcakes and nobody will have to know that they’re eating some heart-healthy treats.
Nuts. Not just any, of course—walnuts and almonds are the best for your heart. Also full of omega-3’s, they contain magnesium, vitamin E, and plenty of other nutrients that make hearts happy. Plus, they’re a good source of protein. Toss some in a salad, over yogurt, in oatmeal, whatever you like. And speaking of oatmeal…
Oatmeal. Think oatmeal is boring? Not only is it full of tons of good stuff for your heart and overall body—soluble fiber, potassium, omega-3s, folic acid, calcium and more!—it’s also anything but boring. Here are some good ways to jazz up your daily bowl of oatmeal.
Fruits and Veggies. As with nuts, your heart doesn’t just thrive on any old vegetables or fruits (though any are pretty much good for you if fresh)—it craves some blueberries, papaya, cantaloupe, oranges, tomatoes, acorn squash, red peppers, spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Out of that spread, you’re likely to find something palatable, right? From carotenoids to various essential vitamins to flavanoids, fiber, and more, these foods will never fail to give you a healthy boost.
