subject: Simple Tips For A Heart-healthy Diet [print this page] You've probably thought about eating in the last few minutes if not right now. Food and eating preoccupies many people's minds. For many in this country, losing weight is a necessary goal that often starts with struggle. From heart-healthy foods to food that improve your eyesight or skin, there's a wide world full of the best nature has to offer.
A healthy diet should always begin with a selection of natural foods. Whole foods rather than processed food from a box are always a good option. To keep your heart in good shape, a steady diet of fruits and vegetables is key. If you're tired of eating the same old fruits, you may enjoy tropical fruits are another unfamiliar kind. Cranberries, blueberries and raspberries all have a potent mix of vitamin C, calcium, beta-carotene and more. Sweet potato is a good substitute for regular white potatoes because of its vitamins and fiber, and spinach is more nutrient-rich than Iceberg and other lettuces. Eating your veggies doesn't have to be boring when you add variety and don't mind looking for new and exciting cooking ideas.
Are you thinking about protein now? Fish, beef and poultry aren't all bad for you. You can't actually enjoy a balanced diet without healthy protein. Lean cuts of meat are okay for you, and fatty fish like salmon and tuna are actually very good for you. Eating plenty of nuts with good fats like almonds and walnuts is good for your heart. Beans and legumes are also rich protein sources and can make excellent meat substitutes in occasional meals. The nutrients in these proteins should be part of a well-balanced diet because they help protect your heart.
Also, a key to a healthy diet is to treat yourself. You're probably very grateful to hear that. 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. So long as you practice moderation you can enjoy most desserts, snacks and foods that you crave. If you enjoy your food guilt-free, you're less like to overdo it.
The key to maintaining a healthy diet is to make easy-to-implement lifestyle changes. It's most important to enjoy exercise, a well-balanced diet and hobbies that enrich your life.
