Healthy foods support metabolism and provide fuel and energy to the body. Eating foods that tax the heart might satisfy the palate and hunger pains, yet these might create havoc and interference on the heart. It is best to eat heart-healthy foods that help this important muscle to function perfectly. The American Heart Association recommends heart healthy foods for life such as those that increase good HDL cholesterol and reduce unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Carbohydrates
Good carbohydrates can be health promoting. Select whole grains, multi-grain or whole wheat bread products. Grains that are minimally processed are heart-healthy foods for life and are healthier than highly processed foods. For pasta, consider brown rice pasta. For oatmeal, consider steel-cut oats or groats. Choose fresh vegetables that contain fiber, such as peas, oranges, bananas, strawberries and apples, according to the American Heart Association. In addition, buy vegetables that double as snack foods, such as carrot and celery sticks, broccoli, cherry tomatoes and cauliflower.
Protein Choices
Quality protein includes low-fat proteins, such as lean meats. Consider poultry, such as turkey breast or chicken breast without the skin, tuna in water and shellfish. Substitute whole eggs with egg whites or an egg substitute. Add low-fat cottage cheese as a side dish to meals. Choose fresh, cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel or trout. Beans, tofu and lentils are excellent choices for protein requirements. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, black beans, kidney beans, chick peas and lentils are acceptable choices for heart-healthy foods for life.
Fats and Oils
The American Heart Association recommends using oils, such as canola, corn, olive, safflower, sesame, soybean and sunflower oils. For dressings and sauces, choose flax, pumpkin or walnut oils. Eliminate margarine and shortening products made from saturated fats. Purchase nuts, such as walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds, and create small servings for snacks. Avocados contain heart-healthy fats and are an excellent addition to salads and sandwiches. Choose eggless mayonnaise or a heart-healthy mayonnaise. Use butter sparingly.
Member Comments