February is American Heart Month, which means there’s no better time to show your heart some love by making heart health a priority. Just by making a few tweaks to your daily routine, you can form heart-healthy habits to love your heart for life!
Here are some things you can do today to take care of your heart:
Eat a heart-healthy diet. The American Heart Association recommends at least half of the grains you consume in a day should be whole grains, like oats. The major heart-health benefits of whole grains come from their fiber content.
With the highest proportion of soluble fiber of any whole grain, and their amazing versatility in cooking and baking, oats make it easy to enjoy higher-fiber versions of your favorite foods. You can use oats to make Burrito Bowls, Banana Bread and even Pizza on a Gluten-free Crust.
Research suggests eating two servings of oats per day can help lower your LDL cholesterol levels by 5.3 per cent in just six weeks, when combined with a low-fat diet and exercise.
Speaking of exercise, get moving! If you are not already exercising regularly, walking just 15 to 30 minutes per day, three times per week can make a big difference. Don’t forget to fuel that active body! Complex carbs, like oats, will give you the long-lasting energy that you need to get the most out of your new active routine. Check out all of the reasons oats make a great complement for an active lifestyle.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important for your heart health. Fiber can help you maintain a healthy weight because it expands to take up space in your stomach, helping you feel full longer. Studies suggests that people who start their day with oatmeal may eat smaller portions at lunch and snack less during the day.
Start your day with a delicious bowl of Banana Berry Oatmeal, or if you’re pressed for time, make our Monday to Friday Overnight Oats the evening before a busy morning and take your heart-healthy breakfast on-the-go!
Show your heart some love by eating oats – a smart and delicious choice to keep your heart healthy for life.