February is heart month; we are not just taking about Valentine\u2019s day. We sat down with our Head Chef to discuss Heart healthy foods and Heart defect awareness day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Creating awareness around Heart Defects commonly know as CHD in children is something close to home for my family. Making sure we have a Heart Healthy meal plan at home is incredibly important to us. Even if you don\u2019t have a family member with CHD or a Heart condition you should still look at incorporating a health heart lifestyle. Here are few simple ways to getting heart healthy in your kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chickpeas<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Chickpeas and other legumes (lentils, other kinds of beans) are a superb source of soluble fibre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Raspberries<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n These berries are loaded with antioxidants that help get rid of damage-causing free radicals in your body. They also deliver fibre and vitamin C, which are both linked to a lower risk of stroke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Other options include Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries all are great choices. Fruits and vegetables in general are excellent choices because of their nutrients and fibre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Green veggies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Popeye was right \u2015 spinach packs a punch! So does kale, Swiss chard and collard. Use these sandwiches and salads instead of lettuce. Broccoli and asparagus are filled with mighty nutrients such as vitamins C and E, potassium, folate, calcium and fibre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Salmon<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This ocean-going fish is a top choice because it\u2019s rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Aim for at least two servings of oily fish each week. Other options include Tuna, Trout, Sardines, and Mackerel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Oatmeal<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Oats have a type of fibre (called beta-glucan). One and a half cups of cooked oatmeal or a little over a cup of cooked barley gives you the amount of beta-glucan you need daily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Walnuts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Nibbling on 5 ounces of nuts each week may cut your risk of heart disease in half. Walnuts have lots of \u201cgood\u201d fats. Walnuts are also a good source of omega-3 fats. Other options include Almonds, Cashews, Pistachios, Flaxseed, and Chia seeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n