A healthy lifestyle is one of the strongest weapons in the fight against heart disease. Following a heart healthy diet is a must if you have a personal or family history of heart disease. But even if you don’t have that background, starting a heart healthy diet is a great way to benefit your overall health. Let’s learn what foods are best along with some tips for making a heart healthy diet part of your normal routine.
It's not just how much you eat - it’s what you eat
Oftentimes when people hear the word “diet” they think of portion control. Portion control is certainly an important part of eating healthy, but if that’s your only focus you’re missing the mark. Your body needs key minerals, protein and nutrients and eating the right balance of them can help you control your weight, cholesterol and blood pressure.
Eat an overall healthy diet that emphasizes:
- a variety of fruits and vegetables
- whole grains
- low-fat dairy products
- skinless poultry and fish
- nuts and legumes
- non-tropical vegetable oils
Limit saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, red meat, sweets and sugar-sweetened beverages. If you choose to eat red meat, compare labels and select the leanest cuts available.
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