February is Heart Health Awareness month, so let’s discuss the heart and foods that can help decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease!
Your heart is the center of your circulatory system and is vital for the proper functioning of your body. Heart problems are the leading cause of death, affecting millions of people every year. Sometimes heart problems are genetic, but in most cases, they can be prevented.
Just by improving your lifestyle and dietary habits.
So, knowing what we know about eating a heart healthy diet, drinking lots of water & exercising to keep weight off is most beneficial for you, whether you are living with heart disease or trying to reduce your risk of heart disease in the future, making a few dietary changes can have a huge effect on your heart health.
What is considered a heart healthy diet?
A heart healthy diet is one that is heavy on fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. A diet that is light on red meat & unhealthy fats including saturated & trans fats.
What is a good heart diet to try?
A great heart healthy diet to try is the Mediterranean diet. Which is also a great diet we recommend during your Zerona treatments. The Mediterranean diet offers numerous health benefits that have helped people that are at high risk for heart disease.
What foods can I include in a heart healthy diet?
First, consider foods you will want to eat more of. When selecting recipes, look for recipes that prioritize vegetables, fruits, and lean protein. Choose foods that are rich in antioxidants like blueberries, green leafy vegetables, avocado and citrus fruits. Quinoa is a great addition to your heart healthy diet, because not only is it filling, but it contains heart healthy fats that can improve your good cholesterol levels. Whole grain breads (which is a good source of fiber) brown rice and rolled or steel cut oats.
A great snack or add to recipes is Walnuts. Walnuts contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your heart. Flaxseeds is another example that is rich in omega 3s. Fish is another great option; you can choose to add to your diet. Salmon is a great option……. but I prefer Cod.
If you feel you aren’t getting all the nutrients from heart healthy foods, there are some supplements that may help. Just ask about what they are during your Zerona consult and we will gladly make some suggestions for you!
Losing weight isn’t easy, but there is no doubt it’s worth it. Your body circulates blood more efficiently, and you are less likely to develop diabetes & heart disease along with many other health challenges. It’s the perfect month to move forward with the health goals you set for yourself last month at the beginning of the new year!
Fit Life Zerona Center is here to help you with your health & weight loss goals to be THE BEST YOU POSSIBLE!
Look for next week’s blog post for a healthy & tasty recipe to try!