Show your Heart some Love!!

      February is American Heart Month and that means it’s the perfect time to give your most important muscle some TLC!  Eating a balanced diet, with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein is a great way to make your heart happy.  Good nutrition combined with regular exercise, will help keep your blood pressure down and your cholesterol levels in check, decreasing your risk for heart disease. 

Making small, sustainable changes towards a healthier lifestyle can not only prevent heart disease but may help keep any current damage to your heart in check-

To celebrate Heart Month, take a few minutes to examine the foods you are eating.  Make it a goal to try and include plenty of heart-healthy foods this February and all year round!

Try to include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: salmon, tuna, olive oil or flaxseed,
• Beans: black, kidney or red beans
• Nuts and Seeds: almonds, soynuts, sunflower seeds or walnuts
• Whole grains: brown rice, oatmeal and quinoa
• Vegetables: spinach, broccoli, asparagus, tomatoes, red, yellow or green bell peppers
• Fruits: blueberries, oranges, cantaloupe, apples, raisins or papaya

      These are just some suggestions, and there are plenty of other varieties of heart-healthy foods. Try out different foods to find which ones you like the best and show your heart some love!