Though infamously recognized as the month of love, February is also known as American Heart Month, officially proclaimed by the president every year dating back to a resolution passed by Congress in 1963 to bring attention to heart disease, the leading cause of death among U.S. adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease counts for nearly 2,200 deaths in the U.S. every day. Simple dietary and lifestyle changes can and will greatly reduce your risk. Grab a plate and check out these yummy, heart-friendly delectables:
Salmon
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, The American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice a week to reduce the risk of arrthymias, slow plaque build up in the arteries, lower cholesterol and slightly lower blood pressure.
Olive Oil
Ditch the butter and opt for cholesteral-lowering olive oil.
Nuts
In comparison to consuming red meant, the unsaturated fat in nuts can help reduce cholesterol.
Berries
Rich in antioxidants, berries lower blood pressure and boost “good” HDL cholesterol.
Oatmeal
Fiber in oatmeal helps to reduce the absorption of “bad” LDL cholesterol into the bloodstream, helping to keep arteries clear.
Soy
Soy protein is one of the best low-fat source of protein when compared to fattier options, like red meat.
Source: WebMD
