The holidays are upon us and the food temptations are great. A couple of simple foods and hints will help you maintain and increase your healthy heart.
First breakfast! Even if you’re intending to splurge later in the day, breakfast can be a healthy and rewarding meal. Rolled oats are good, but steel-cut oats are even better. They are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar, accordingly to experts at the Harvard School of Public Health. (Hint-Try Costco for six-pack of individual frozen steel-cut oatmeal. Pop in the micro wave and you’ll have a delicious and healthy breakfast in minutes)
Also on the healthy heart food list are peanuts, tree nuts such as walnuts, pecans and pistachios. They help lower harmful LDL cholesterol, raise protective HDL and lower blood pressure. And, be sure to consume Blood Pressure control foods with enough calcium, magnesium and potassium.
These simple thoughts will help control your Blood Pressure and cholesterol, and yes….try to limit your holiday portions, particularly the sweets and alcoholic beverages. (Harvard Heart Letter-Harvard Medical School)
Want to be pro-active about you and your family’s health? Read more about Primary Care in Naples.