Heart disease and other heart problems are related directly to the foods you consume. Foods that are high in saturated fats should be eaten sparingly and should be avoided completely if you are at risk for heart disease. The Mayo Clinic suggests that of all the calories you eat in a day, saturated fats should make up less than 7 percent of everything you eat. Stick to this regimen by eating the following heart-healthy meats with each meal.
Poultry
Chicken and turkey are lean meats recommended by the American Heart Association and the Mayo Clinic as part of a healthy heart diet. This does not mean, however, that you can pick up a bucket of heart-healthy fried chicken on the way home from work. Chicken and turkey served in restaurants tend to contain excess fat and oil in order to make the food taste better and should be avoided when possible. Instead, turkey and chicken should be baked, boiled or grilled with nonfat cooking spray. The skin of turkey and chicken are high in saturated fat, so it should be removed. Although dark meat chicken and turkey are lower in saturated fat than say, a steak, white meat is a more nutritious and healthier choice. Avoid frying or using excess butter or oil on the turkey or chicken.
Pork
According to dietitian Donna Feldman, pork tenderloin is the leanest cut of pork, and therefore the healthiest option when eating pork to prevent heart disease. A pork tenderloin contains 3 grams of fat per serving. Although pork is technically a red meat, it is far leaner than beef, and is a welcome change from eating turkey and chicken every night. Pork tenderloin should be cooked with nonstick cooking spray in a frying pan or baked. Add a small amount of olive oil to keep the tenderloin moist and add a few raw cranberries and a teaspoon of honey to create a tangy honey glaze for the pork that is still a heart-healthy option for lunch or dinner.
Buffalo and Venison
Although you may not find them in your grocery store, buffalo and venison are lean and low in saturated fat. You can purchase buffalo and venison at specialty grocery stores or butchers, as well as farmer's markets. According to Feldman, buffalo contains less than 3 grams of fat per serving. Similar to buffalo, venison contains 3 grams of fat per serving. Both options are a great way to enjoy red meat without sacrificing your health. Although cuts of venison and buffalo may be more expensive than buying a carton of ground chuck at your local grocery store, your heart will thank you for your healthy purchase.
