Fantastic Foods for a Healthy Heart
Did you know that the foods we eat can play a big role in keeping our hearts happy and healthy? Here are a few delicious and nutritious foods your heart (and tastebuds!) will thank you for.
FILL UP ON FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
Fruits and veggies are true superheroes when it comes to heart health! They’re packed with vital nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants that help protect your heart. Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, berries, oranges, and capsicums are all fantastic choices. Plus, they are versatile and can be included in every meal—whether it’s a green smoothie for breakfast, a crunchy salad for lunch, or a veggie stir-fry for dinner. Yum!
GO FOR WHOLE GRAINS
As far as heart health goes, refined grains like white bread and white rice are a no-go. But on the flip side, whole grains can be great for your ticker! They are high in dietary fibre, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Foods like oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa are not just good for your heart, but they also keep you feeling full and satisfied longer. So why not start your day with a bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits and nuts, or opt for whole grain bread when making your favourite sandwich?
SAY YES TO HEALTHY FATS
Not all fats are bad for your heart. In fact, some fats are essential for heart health! Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, found in foods like avocados, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, can help reduce harmful cholesterol levels. Incorporating these heart-healthy fats into your diet can be as simple as sprinkling some seeds on your salad, grilling a piece of salmon for dinner, or snacking on a handful of nuts!
Making small changes to your diet could lead to a big improvement in your heart health. So, start filling your plate with more fruits and vegetables, choose whole grains, and embrace healthy fats.
Note: always consult your doctor or a dietician before making any changes to your diet.
Could you use some help incorporating heart-healthy foods into your diet? Here at After-Care, we offer meal preparation and nutrition as part of our home care services! Click here to learn more and contact us today.