Diet is also an effective strategy for keeping our hard working hearts in tip top shape. Research has identified these important components of a heart-nourishing diet: Different types of fruits and vegetables every day. Whole grains like oats, popcorn, and whole grains. Protein foods that are low in saturated fat, including fish, lean meat, eggs, nuts, beans, and soy foods. Foods and oils with a high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as olive, safflower, sesame, sunflower, soybean, rapeseed and corn oils, nuts and nut butters and avocados.
We also need to protect our heart from certain ingredients that, if consumed in excess, can make our heart sick and contribute to clogged arteries. So keep these to a minimum: sodium (salt), sugar, alcohol, saturated fat and trans fats. The best way to monitor these in your diet: read the nutrition label and compare products.
How do you put these ingredients together to prepare a meal that will keep your heart in good shape? Check out the American Heart Association’s recipes: https://recipes.heart.org/en/recipes. Now you cook!
