Cold weather often has us reaching for comfort food and that comfort food isn’t always the best for our bodies. A healthy diet and lifestyle are the best weapons in the fight against heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans. March is National Nutrition Month and the American Heart Association is urging those in the Granite State to be Healthy For Good™! Healthy For Good™ is the American Heart Association’s new movement to inspire all Americans to focus on the simple idea that making small, incremental changes today can create a difference for generations to come.
When hunger strikes, it’s a good idea to have healthy snacks nearby to avoid unhealthy temptations. Plan ahead for healthy snacking and include foods rich in fiber (whole grains, nuts, vegetables, and fruits), potassium (oranges, potatoes, cantaloupe) and omega-3 fatty acids (make mix with walnuts, pumpkin seeds and ground flaxseeds to sprinkle on meals or eat as a snack). Try colorful foods to get antioxidant-rich flavonoids in your diet.
The American Heart Association recommends that you eat a wide variety of nutritious foods daily. Incorporating even simple, small changes can make a big difference in living a healthier life and can help prevent obesity, diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
To snack the sensible way, choose nutrient-rich snacks like those listed below.
When you’re craving something crunchy try:
- Apples
- Carrot and celery sticks
- Radishes
When you’re looking to quench your thirst try:
- Fruit-infused Water
- Unsweetened juices
- Fat-free milk
When you want a munchy snack try:
- Unsalted seeds and nuts
- Low-fat or fat-free yogurt
- Low-fat or fat-free cheese
When you need something sweet try:
- Baked apple
- Fresh fruit
- Thin slice of angel food cake
Looking to get more involved with the American Heart Association? Join us at the New Hampshire Heart Ball on April 13, 2019 at Wentworth by the Sea in New Castle, NH. Please visit nhheartball.heart.org for more information.