Monday Message from February 13th

Enjoy heart-healthy foods

Ages: Toddler, Preschooler, Gradeschooler, Teen
Topics: Heart Health, Dairy, Fats, Fruits, Grains, Proteins, Vegetables, Meal Planning, Energy Balance


What's the best way to share the love this Valentine's Day? A healthy heart. The month of February is not just for sweet treats and hugs—it's also dedicated to raising awareness of the leading cause of death in America: heart disease. Incorporate some of these ideas into your family's meals for a heart-healthy diet.

The key to heart health is eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol and sodium, and high in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Eating a well-balanced diet will include a combination of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables and low-fat dairy.

Saturated and trans fats are found in some meats, dairy products, baked goods and deep-fried and processed foods. Both types of fat raise your LDL—or "bad"—cholesterol level. Instead, eat more plant proteins, fish, poultry and low-fat dairy foods. Start cooking with oils high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat instead of butter, margarine or shortening, which are high in trans fat.

Healthy Substitutions

Switch refined grains, like white rice or bread, with whole-grain options, such as brown rice and 100-percent whole-grain bread or pasta. Throughout the day, sip on water and limit sugary beverages by choosing fat-free milk and 100-percent fruit juices.

Next time you are at the grocery store, pick up some of these heart-healthy items:

Beans, peas and barley
Soybeans, other soy-based foods
Fruits and vegetables
Salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel
Red grapes and purple grape juice
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, pecans and hazelnuts
Move It

Another way to reduce your risk of heart disease is to be active. Regular, moderate physical activity lowers blood pressure and helps your body control stress and weight. Be physically active in your own way, and start by doing what you can, at least 10 minutes at a time. Children and teens should get 60 or more minutes of physical activity per day, and adults should get two hours and 30 minutes per week. Encourage your family to take a walk after dinner or play a game of catch or basketball.

For more heart-healthy cooking tips and information on reducing your risk for heart disease, consult a registered dietitian in your area.