Just in time for Valentine's Day, I want you to save your heart. Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US? It's true it takes the lives of more loved ones that accidents and cancer. There are several risk factors that contribute to heart disease and heart failure. Nine out of 10 heart disease patients have at least one risk factor. Several medical conditions and lifestyle choices can put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Cigarette smoking
- Overweight and obesity
- Poor diet
- Physical inactivity
- Alcohol use
Heart disease is not one of the illnesses that just happens one day. It takes years to develop. It's not an accident. It is a disease that can be prevented and cured with change of lifestyle, not just medication. By eating less saturated fats, no trans fats, more whole grains, more fiber from fruits and vegetables, and being moderately physically active at least 30-60 minutes five days a week, you can start to reverse and get rid of the fat plaque that is lining the walls of your arteries, heart and body. Think of it like not brushing your teeth. You know that disgusting film of plaque that you get when you don't brush your teeth? It is kind of like that inside your body. Gross huh. Now I know I am not the best eater in the world...see older posts about my love for taco bell...but really, Americans, we need to step it up. Other countries think that we only like fast food and we are fat.
My challenge for the rest of February. Try to find at least 3 heart healthy foods that you can add to your diet, that you are not currently eating, or feel that you can eat more of.
Hint: Most fruits and veggies are on this list. Anything high in fiber (aka think whole grains). Try to stay away from foods that come from animals when thinking something is "heart healthy."
