February is American Heart Month, which raises awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of deaths among men and women across the United States. In honor of American Heart Month, consider embracing a heart-healthy diet, which will help to lower your risk of heart disease and heart attacks.
If you’re looking to include healthier foods in your family’s diet, you may want to consider adding some of these items to your shopping list:
Avocados
Did you know avocados are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats? These fats are especially important as they are known to reduce levels of cholesterol.
Berries
If you enjoy strawberries, blackberries or blueberries, we’ve got great news! Berries are packed with heart-healthy nutrients. It’s said that eating plenty of berries can reduce your risk for heart disease.
Whole Grains
Foods that are high in fiber, such as whole grains, are a great option to reduce ‘bad’ cholesterol. Common types of whole grains include quinoa, brown rice, oats, barley and many more.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale and collard greens all have something in common, besides their green color. These vitamin-packed vegetables all provide a great source of vitamin K. Vitamin K helps to protect your arteries and promotes proper blood clotting.
Beans
As a child, you may have heard your parents tell you that beans are good for your heart. And, they were right! Beans are good for lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
Walnuts
If you’re looking for a source of fiber and micronutrients, you may want to give walnuts a try! Studies show that adding walnuts to your diet can help to protect against heart disease.
Dark Chocolate
If you have left-over Valentine’s Day candy, it may come in handy! Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which is great for your heart’s health.
Tip: Be sure to get dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70 percent. And, make sure to not overindulge.
Garlic
There are many health benefits to eating garlic. Known as a health-enhancing supplement, garlic promotes the well-being of the heart and helps to maintain healthy blood circulation.
If you have questions about your nutrition or if you’re looking to make modifications to your diet, be sure to speak with a member of our Wellness Team during your next visit. To learn more about these foods and other heart-healthy nutrients, head over to the full article, courtesy of Healthline.com
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, we want to show some love to our members. From February 14-28, we’ll be keeping track of how many times you swipe-in at the Y. If you finish in the Top 50, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a YMCA sweatshirt! The more you visit the Y, the better your chances of winning!
Throughout the month of January, Y members who sign up for a complimentary fitness consultation, Wellness Center orientation or FitStart appointment will be entered into a drawing to win a ‘New Year, New You’ package that includes a free fitness assessment, a metabolic screening and a 30-minute personal training session.
You found the strength to achieve your wildest health goal.