February is American Heart Month... and a great time to think about the steps we can take for better heart health this year.
Here are three simple ways to make healthier heart decisions:
1. In the Drive Thru:
¨ Drink water, skim, or low-fat milk. Avoid sodas loaded with sugars and calories.
¨ Skip the sides, which are usually deep-fried. For a healthier side dish, order a side salad or fruit cup.
2. At Home or at Work:
¨ Go out for a short walk before breakfast, after dinner, or both! Start with 5-10 minutes and work up to 30 minutes.
¨ Take a break from your desk and walk around the building.
3. In the Grocery Store:
¨ Buy more fruits and vegetables that are good sources of fiber, including beans, peas, oranges, bananas, strawberries, and apples.
¨ Choose soft margarines that contain zero grams trans fat instead of buying butter.