Times have changed - we’re learning more all the time about what is and is not good for your body. And it turns out that the most natural foods are the best for you.
Here are a few tips to try:
- Grab an apple today, instead of a processed snack. A true, heart-healthy diet consists of 5-7 servings of vegetables and fruit every day.
- Challenge yourself once this month to stick to the outside aisles of the grocery store where most grocers keep fruits and vegetables, meats, and dairy products.
- Feed yourself some good fats. Your body needs some fats and when you’re cutting back on the extra carbs, and good fats can help you feel full. Polyunsaturated fats like avocado and olive oil are good for you in the proper amounts. Processed foods are full of the saturated fats your body struggles to process.
- Eat an egg. Eggs are the perfect protein. A couple of eggs in the morning or a hard-boiled egg in the afternoon will give you an energy boost.
- Choose fresh or frozen over canned. When possible, fresh or frozen foods give your body far more nutrients than canned foods, like soups and vegetables, which are often loaded with sodium to keep them preserved.
Fad and extreme diets put stress on your heart. When possible, try to stay away from the big three: sugar, saturated fat, and sodium are the food additives that are most dangerous for your heart.
Know your risks for heart disease
These simple nutrition tips are great for anyone, but they’re even more important if you’re at risk for heart disease. The American Heart Association breaks down risks into risks you can’t change and risks you can manage.
The good news is, even if you are managing risk factors (like age), you can also lower your risk in each area below with dramatic benefits for your heart and overall health:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Stress
- Alcohol consumption
- Diet and nutrition
You’re not alone
Our coaches and providers are here to help you achieve success with your wellness goals. If you’re concerned about your heart health, talk to your Vera provider. We’ll partner with you and make a plan to proactively turn around some of your risks. You’ll be amazed at what you can change in a short time. Give us a call.