Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Healthy Heart / Heart Aglow


What to Eat for a Healthy Heart

The American Heart Association recognizes February as American Heart Month, which means there’s no better time than now to learn more about heart-disease prevention. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States — but steps can be taken to reverse this dangerous trend, starting with eating heart-healthy foods, exercising, and partnering with your doctor for early detection. 
"The good news is that due to recent advances in understanding, detecting, and treating heart disease, I believe we have reached a point where the great majority of heart attacks and strokes can be prevented," explains Dr. Arthur Agatston, leading preventive cardiologist.   "One of the most important things you can do to prevent heart disease is to practice heart-healthy eating," he says. "By enjoying the wide range of nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods, you take a big step toward reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke."
Here are Dr. Agatston’s basic guidelines for heart-healthy eating:
  • Eat good carbohydrates. Good carbs include high-fiber, nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
  • Eat good fats. Choose good fats found in extra-virgin olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, flaxseed oil, walnut oil, avocados, nuts, and fish. Omega-3 (fish oil) supplements are also fine.
  • Eat lean protein. The best sources include skinless white-meat poultry, fish and shellfish, lean cuts of meat, and soy-based options such as tofu, as well as legumes, eggs, low-fat dairy foods, nuts, and seeds.
If you follow these guidelines, you can put together delicious, satisfying, and healthy meals and snacks — and take the first step toward a healthier life.


Heart Aglow

 The world is full of wonder,
 Things of beauty, mirth and whim;
 And I must surely say I know, 
 You're definitely one of them!

 You fill my head with happy thoughts,
 My heart with such delight;
 My stomach's full of butterflies,
 Your love fills my soul with light.

 I'm so glad to have you in my life,
 I thought that you should know;
 Just the simple thought of you,
 Always sets my heart aglow.

Written by Yolanda Pacheco Garcia
from the book "Awakening Love"
www.victoryp.com

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