By Melissa Billie Clark
February is known as the month of love, especially with Valentine’s Day approaching. It’s also Heart Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to show yourself some love by choosing heart-healthy foods.
Consider reaching for a delicious apple instead of a bag of Cheetos or a Snickers bar (less healthy options). As the saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and there’s truth to that. According to Harvard Health, eating a medium-sized apple daily can help keep your arteries clear and may lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation. Additionally, the fiber in apples can support digestive health and bowel function.
Other fruits for heart health include oranges, mangoes, guavas, bananas, and papayas. Vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and edamame are excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and U, as well as potassium and fiber. You can create a delicious plant-based meal by chopping these vegetables and combining them with a ginger-garlic almond dressing. Check out the recipe here: Amazing Edamame Salad.
Now, let’s talk about proteins! Fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and herring are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Regarding meat, it’s best to choose lean options, ideally at least 93% lean. For vegetarians, tofu is an excellent source of protein. Tofu is made from soybeans and is packed with magnesium, iron, and vitamin B. Beans are also widely consumed worldwide and offer numerous benefits, including improved gut health and stabilized blood glucose levels, which may help prevent diabetes.
It’s important to limit your intake of saturated fats found in creamy sauces, cheeses, butter, biscuits, and pastries. While these foods can give a dopamine boost, incorporating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals will promote long-term health. This, in turn, will help you feel better, look better, and take better care of yourself.
Exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, laugh often, smile, and do everything in moderation. These habits can elevate your serotonin levels and make you feel like fireworks on the Fourth of July.
Remember to consult with your physician before making any dietary changes.
Disclaimer: Health 360 is an editorial column. The information provided by this piece reflects the author’s sole opinion and should not be taken as medical advice.
Information Provided By: odphp.health.gov, www.bbcgoodfood.com and www.medicalnewstoday.com
