by the Team at Fry’s Food Stores
Valentine’s Day is not the only day for matters of the heart in February. As American Heart Month, all of February is a time to focus on keeping our communities healthy and free of heart disease, the leading cause of death among adults in the United States.
Knowing about the causes and risk factors for the disease may help you avoid heart problems down the road.
Several risks factors play an important role in determining whether you’re likely to develop heart disease. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and smoking.
The good news is that these risk factors are modifiable and can be controlled with healthy lifestyle choices, specifically around one’s diet. Consuming food low in sodium and saturated fat is key to preventing heart disease.
Show your heart some love by incorporating heart healthy foods into your diet.
- Blueberries are full of antioxidants. Studies show they can help lower blood pressure and make blood vessels more elastic.
- Chia seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, iron and calcium, and they are linked to positive heart health.
- Dark Chocolate is high in flavonoids, which have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Oats are loaded with fiber, zinc, magnesium and phosphorus. They are associated with a reduced risk of coronary disease and can also help with the effects of inflammation related to various diseases, including diabetes.
- Salmon contains a high amount of omega-3, which can help reduce blood clotting and blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart failure.
For more healthy living inspiration and heart healthy recipes visit www.frysfood.com/health/info