subject: Know What's Right for a Heart-Healthy Diet [print this page] Know What's Right for a Heart-Healthy Diet
Something that's on the mind of many adults is eating a healthy diet. Often the goal is to lose weight, but sometimes it's difficult to know where to begin. Once you know the right foods to eat, you can begin your journey to better living. Go natural. That's the simplest piece of food advice. Fresh foods are extremely healthful, and even options like unprocessed canned vegetables or fresh-frozen ones can be good. Fresh fruits and vegetables are part of the foundation for a heart-healthy diet because they help eliminate free radicals in your bloodstream, which protects your blood vessels. If you want variety in your fruit lineup, think about trying some tropical fruits. Papaya has beta-carotene, Vitamins C and E and more; it's great for smoothies, a fresh salsa or by itself. Acorn squash has B-complex and C vitamins, and spinach is very healthful. In fact, baked squash served with sauteed spinach can make a great dish. Online cooking sites can have plenty of new and exciting ideas for fruit and vegetable dishes. I'm sure you also want to know about meat and protein. Often the negative aspects of meat and fish are reported more than the positives. Don't skip out on the protein; it's actually good for you. The three best protein options are fatty fish like salmon that are full of omega-3's, tofu and lean cuts of meat. Beans and legumes are other good non-meat sources of protein as well as nuts like walnuts and almonds. Fish, nuts and beans provide phytonutrients and help fulfill you without filling your arteries and body with dangerous fat and cholesterol. If you think you have to skip dessert to be healthy, think again. You read that correctly; you should treat yourself. The list of heart-healthy foods includes things like red wine and dark chocolate. These two foods contain nutrients called polyphenols that can reduce bad cholesterol, protect blood vessels and lower blood pressure. With all desserts and snacks, eating them in moderation or only occasionally is the best piece of advice. Allowing yourself to eat foods you enjoy helps you not to feel as if you're punishing yourself. When you incorporate small changes into all aspects of your life, it's less challenging to start and maintain a healthy diet. It's most important to enjoy exercise, a well-balanced diet and hobbies that enrich your life.
