Food RX: Heart Health
- Christine Pierangeli, CMNT
- Jan 31, 2018
- 1 min read
February is heart month so let’s spend it focusing on taking great care of this amazing organ! There are several key nutrients to include in a heart healthy diet.
Antioxidants help us quench the free radicals that cause cholesterol to oxidize and become dangerous in our arteries.
A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables (vitamins C, E and Selenium) helps prevent that free radical damage.
Focus on eating enough healthy fats that help us reduce inflammation in the arterial walls. Cold water fish (salmon), walnuts, avocadoes and extra virgin olive oil are great sources of essential fatty acids that support the heart. Many Americans are deficient in magnesium, which is a very important mineral that helps calm us, relaxes the heart and decreases blood pressure making it a very important nutrient for our heart health. Good sources of magnesium include black beans, the grain millet and sunflower seeds. So spread the love this month and always by eating to nourish THE HEART!
Focusing on heart-healthy foods is one of the smartest choices we can make, especially with how much diet impacts long-term wellness. Older adults often face serious heart issues that require ongoing care and support. For families dealing with advanced illness in aging relatives, I recommend speaking with an end of life social worker to get guidance on emotional and practical care planning. Having someone knowledgeable walk you through the process can bring peace of mind during an otherwise stressful time.