 February is Heart Health Month | |
| Fun Foods for Heart Health February is all about the heart. We celebrate Valentine's Day with those closest to our hearts, and it is also American Heart Month. There is no better time than now to focus on the health of your heart and the hearts of your loved ones. Here are some fun foods, including chocolate, that taste good and are surprisingly good for your heart. Dark Chocolate Good news for those of us that will indulge in some chocolate hearts this Valentine's Day. There is increasing evidence that dark chocolate may improve heart health. Dark chocolate contains higher amounts of antioxidant flavonoids than regular milk chocolate. According to a new study in the January 2006 issue of HEART Magazine, a daily dose of dark chocolate may help keep coronary arteries smooth, which is beneficial for the heart. Other studies suggest that dark chocolate and cocoa can help increase HDL cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol, and also help lower blood pressure. Just make sure you practice moderation when it comes to your chocolate consumption. Walnuts Walnuts and other nuts are usually brought out only for special occasions, but emerging science suggests we should make them everyday fare. Walnuts are one of the richest sources of the omega-3 fat ALA and contain fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They yield many heart protective effects including lowering bad cholesterol and CRP, an indicator of harmful inflammation. The FDA has even allowed walnuts to make a heart health claim. For those concerned about weight, studies have shown substituting walnuts in the diet for other fats will not lead to weight gain, and may even help control hunger when a few are eaten before a meal. Tea In recent years there has been a great deal of scientific interest in this ancient beverage's ability to protect heart health. Both green and black tea are rich in health protective antioxidant flavonoids. Emerging studies suggest tea helps the heart by inhibiting blood clot formation and protecting arteries from harmful inflammation. It also appears to prevent damage to "bad" cholesterol which can make it more likely to cause artery clogging plaques. In a 2002 study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers found those who consumed at least one cup of green tea per day were 42 percent less likely to have a heart attack than those who did not drink green tea. Wine There is some evidence to suggest that moderate drinking, especially if it is red wine, may be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Red wine contains more polyphenols, including the antioxidant resveratrol than other alcoholic beverages. Besides grape skins, resveratrol can be found in high amounts in raspberries and peanuts and may help reduce the risk of blood clots. Other potential health benefits associated with red wine include a reduced risk of heart attack and increased HDL, the "good" cholesterol. Remember that moderation is key. Women should limit intake to 4 ounces of wine per day and men should limit wine intake to 8 ounces per day. If you drink more than this on a daily basis it may lead to other health problems.
|  Alpsnack Dark Chocolate for Your Heart! Rich dark chocolate, aside from making these bars absolutely incredible, is a high source of anti-oxidants, so you can have your cake and eat it, too! Alpsnack energy bars contain hemp nut, an ancient food source that supplies high amounts of the two essential fatty acids (EFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 in perfect balance, as well as all essential amino acids with a high protein efficiency ratio. -Hemp Nuts, Almonds & Fruits -Organic, Gluten-Free & Vegan -Over 500mg Omega-3! -Unprocessed Ingredients 
|
| February is all about the heart. We celebrate Valentine's Day with those closest to our hearts, and it is also American Heart Month. There is no better time than now to focus on the health of your heart and the hearts of your loved ones. Your Friends at EdibleNature.com | |
