Make your diet more heart-healthy this month.
Want to celebrate American Heart Month, but not sure where to begin? Making small lifestyle changes to improve your cardiovascular health is a great place to start. For instance, you should try incorporating more heart-healthy foods into your diet this month. Here are some of the beneficial foods that you should load up on.
- Salmon
Contrary to popular belief, not all fatty foods are bad for you. The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon actually have anti-clotting properties that help to keep your blood flowing smoothly. In fact, eating salmon regularly can also help you lower triglycerides, a type of harmful fat that increases your chances of developing heart disease.
- Berries
Berries are a great source of polyphenols, antioxidants that fight against damaging free radicals. Additionally, berries offer a healthy dose of fiber and Vitamin C which have both been linked to lowering the risk of stroke. Raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are all great fruits to work into your diet this month.
- Walnuts
While small, walnuts have major health benefits. For instance, walnuts are rich in fiber and micronutrients such as magnesium, copper, and manganese. According to research, eating walnuts can help lower bad LDL cholesterol levels, reduce diastolic blood pressure, and decrease oxidative stress and inflammation. Other studies have suggested that ingesting walnuts can help you lower your risk for heart disease.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a natural antioxidant that can neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent oxidative damage and inflammation which can contribute to heart disease. Studies have linked lycopene to reduced risk for heart disease and stroke and improved artery health.
These are some of the heart-healthy foods that you should incorporate into your diet this American Heart Month. Want another way to take care of yourself this February? Then make sure you have the right health insurance in place. For assistance with all your health coverage needs, contact Nick Agliato (nickAgliato@wilk4800.com) at Steve Wilk Insurance. Check out our new office at 310 S Main Street, Suite C, Lombard, IL 60148.