This week on Good Food Friday, I shared foods and tips for a healthy heart. What we eat, plays a huge role in helping to keep our heart healthy. These are some tasty and convenient options for every meal of the day that have a heart healthy component.
Plant-based breakfasts
Starting the day with a balanced breakfast can help with weight management, which is important for heart health. Those that are pressed for time in the morning can seek out convenient options like make-ahead vegetarian breakfast burritos made with whole grain tortillas, veggies and plant-based protein like tofu and black-eyed peas. Pop these in the microwave or oven and breakfast is served.
Beans are a great protein alternative to meat
Beans are rich in protein but don’t contain animal fats which are the ones we should avoid in excess. Beans are also an excellent source of soluble fiber, which may help lower cholesterol. Add to tacos, soup and sandwiches at lunchtime, really conveniently.
Incorporate heart-healthy nuts into snacks
Nuts are a good source of heart-healthy fats and using them to replace saturated fats in the diet, may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Choose unsalted, raw nuts and incorporate them into energy bites and bars.
Nut butters into breakfast
Nut butters are another way to incorporate plant protein, fiber and heart healthy fats. Pair them with breakfast either a slice of whole grain bread, oatmeal or smoothies.
