This post was sponsored by Nature Made® as a part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.
In my twenties I never thought about heart health. I shoved greasy french fries in my mouth like there was no tomorrow. I'm in my thirties so it has become a different story. Now I have to watch what I eat and think about the future to make sure that I have one.
My husband was born with a Mitral valve prolapse and now that he is getting older is really concerned about it and is taking steps to make sure that it doesn't become a problem later on. So I've compiled a list of 7 Steps to a Healthy Heart that we are incorporating in our lives to make sure we have healthy hearts.
1. Limit Unhealthy Fats – Yes, you need to skip the bacon. The American Heart Association says that only 7% of your daily calories needs to be saturated fats. Too many saturated fats lead to high cholesterol and coronary artery disease. Make better choices, you do need fats but stick with avocado and coconut oils.
2. Add in More Fruits and Vegetables – Not only are fruits and vegetables low calorie but they also have minerals that your body needs. They are also high in dietary fiber and the more you eat the more apt you are not to eat the fatty foods.
3. Take Heart Healthy Supplements – We love Nature Made's Magnesium. They're completely free of artificial colors, preservatives, starch, yeast and gluten. Taking magnesium tablets as a dietary supplement can promote healthy nerve and muscle function including your heart. We buy ours at Walmart because you never have to wait for a sale, they always have a great price!
4. Eat Whole Grains – Whole grains are good sources of fiber and other nutrients that play a role in regulating blood pressure and heart health. You can increase the amount of whole grains in a heart-healthy diet by making simple substitutions for refined grain products. Quinoa is one of our family's favorites.
5. Choose Low Fat Protein – I already told you no bacon but I'm also going to tell you to lay off of the red meat. Lean meat, poultry and fish, low-fat dairy products, and eggs are some of your best sources of protein. We eat a lot of fish, beans, and nuts. These consist of less fat and cholesterol which is easier on your heart.
6. Reduce Your Sodium Intake – You may not realize it but we Americans eat a lot of salt in our diets. It is in everything!! Eating a lot of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Quit eating so many prepackaged foods. Eat fresh foods that you make and watch how much salt you add. Your taste buds will adjust and your heart will thank you.
7. Get Active – Add at least 30 minutes of brisk walking daily. It helps your body all around and gets your heart pumping. If you don't push it and use it you may lose it.
Check out more Nature Made products on their website. Join us in our healthy journey and sign up and be a part of the Nature Made Daily Boost program http://wellnesswithnaturemade.com/home
I-C is hosting a contest through which your readers can enter to win one of 20 $50 Walmart gift cards.
The contest opens on 4/4/16 and closes 4/26/16.
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