The most famous holiday in February is Valentine’s Day, the day when we express love for our loved ones. Why not show our hearts some love too? We can do this by eating nutritious foods that help our hearts stay strong and healthy. When we love our hearts, they love us back by powering our bodies. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) can occur if the heart is weakened and not working properly, but here are a few steps that can help the heart stay healthy:
Try Eating Less Salt
Eating less salt lowers blood pressure. Keeping blood pressure at lower levels allows the heart to pump blood at a normal rate and also allows more blood to flow to the tissues throughout the body. If you’re buying canned foods, look for the “low sodium” or “no salt added” versions. Also try removing the saltshaker from your dinner table!
Limit Saturated and Trans Fats
Eating too much saturated fats and trans -fats hurts our heart. They can block the arteries where blood needs to flow. If the arteries are blocked, then blood cannot reach the tissues, which then causes many more health issues because blood carries oxygen to our organs.
Try Eating Less Cholesterol
Like saturated and trans- fats, too much cholesterol can block the arteries where blood needs to flow. The body needs cholesterol. But too much cholesterol can hurt the heart and other organs.
Move Around!
Physical Activity helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and also keeps the heart working to pump blood throughout the body. Try to aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week.
This Valentine’s Day, give your heart some love. Hearts love fruits and vegetables, so try to sneak them in when possible. Try a casserole filled with delicious chopped veggies! Whole-grains, lean meats, fish, and low-fat dairy products are more foods that the heart loves. Try 2% or 1% milk instead of whole milk. Then, try fat-free milk for an even healthier option. Be sure to pay attention to your heart and show it some love!
