With the spotlight on heart health this month, you may be wondering, how can I incorporate more heart healthy products into my diet? Well, the American Heart Association makes it easy for you to identify heart healthy products.
Their heart-check-mark symbol found on food products ensures the product has been approved by the American Heart Association and meets criteria for being low in saturated fat and cholesterol. They even have a certification for whole grain products. To find out more about what the certifications mean, visit the following: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4973.
Even better, you can search their database by food product or company and build a grocery list: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2115. Selecting healthy foods at the grocery store just got easier!
I’ve selected a few of my favorite American Heart Association approved products for you try:
- Egg Beaters: a great substitute for eggs that are fat free and cholesterol free. Plus, they cook in minutes! Try an Egg Beater scramble with fresh spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms.
- Cheerios: Cheerios are an oldie but goodie! They are low in fat and sugar and contain soluble fiber which helps lower cholesterol and keep you feeling satisfied. Try a bowl of cherrios topped with fresh fruit or work them into your favorite trail mix.
- Kashi Heart to Heart Instant Oatmeal: instant oatmeal is a convenient and healthy way to start the day and even makes a great snack. Top it off with fresh berries and maximize the health benefits!
- Chiquita Grape and Apple Bite – Go Packs: eating fruit on the go has never been easier! How can you skip a fruit snack when it’s already cut and packaged for you? Pair fruit with yogurt or low-fat string cheese.
- Heartland Whole Grain Spaghetti: give your pasta dinner a whole grain facelift by swapping white pasta for whole wheat pasta. You’ll add fiber, vitamins, minerals and great texture. Chances are you’ll use eat less pasta as well due to the filling qualities of whole grain pasta. If the texture takes a little getting used to, try another approved item - Ronzoni Healthy Harvest Whole Wheat Blend pasta varieties. The blend of white and wheat flours is an easy way to make the transistion to the real deal!
- Lamb Weston Sweet Things Mashed Sweet Potatoes (frozen): sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A and a good source of fiber too. Try them in place of mashed potatoes or spread them on a whole wheat tortilla and top with black beans and low-fat cheese for a tasty burrito.
- Bumblebee Premium Albacore Tuna (packed in water): albacore tuna is a good source of heart health Omega 3's. And, it an effortless way to whip up a healthy lunch. Skip the high fat deli tuna and make your own with low-fat mayo or red wine vinaigrette and stuff it into a whole wheat pita. Or, try tuna on top of a green salad for a filling protein boost.
Be kind to your heart and your grocery cart!
Please note: The information in this article is not to be followed as
medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your physician
or primary health practitioner for information regarding your own personal
health and necessary treatments.
