
It seems only fitting that February – in its pink-hued Valentine glory – is also designated American Heart Month. With one in every three U.S. adults suffering from cardiovascular disease, heart health tops the charts as a serious nationwide concern. And guess what? Doing good for your heart isn’t all that difficult. You can start by opting for these smart buys on your next trip to the grocery store.
Deeply hued fruits and veggies
Go for richly colored and raw. Fruits like blueberries and papaya, and veggies like spinach and sweet potatoes pack extra vitamins and minerals, according to the American Heart Association.
Whole grains
Three servings a day of whole grains – packed with more fiber and nutrients than processed flours – will help keep your heart in tip-top shape. I like FoodFit’s guide to grains, which makes choosing easy.
Oatmeal
The Mayo Clinic cites this easy morning go-to as a bad-cholesterol lowering breakfast. The perfect way to start the day.
Salmon
Omega-3 fatty acids make fish, like salmon, trout and herring, great options for dinner. Just steer clear of the creamy sauces that often accompany a fresh catch, warns the AHA. (tip: choose ‘wild’ over farmed raised.)
Extra Virgin Olive oil
Is olive oil really gonna help keep your ticker ticking? Sure is, according to CNN. Thanks to the oil’s monounsaturated fats, it’s a far healthier choice than butter.

Red wine
The powerful antioxidants found in red wine fight damage from free radicals. This Everyday Health article recommends a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon a day to reap the benefits. We’ll take their word.
Dark chocolate
Chocoholics, rejoice. Nutritionists seem to be on-again, off-again with chocolate advice, but in general, it appears that dark chocolate in moderation helps regulate blood pressure.
Almonds
Cholesterol free and low in saturated fats, almonds pack a mighty punch. According to many nutritionists and the California Almond Board, a handful a day is just the right amount, especially if you whip up this basil pesto mix.
Flaxseed
Essential fatty acids are what make flaxseed so popular since our body can’t produce its own. As the Cleveland Clinic suggests, look for it on the ingredients list of cereals, crackers and trail mix.
Tea
Studies show that drinking green tea reaps major long-term health benefits. There are so many tasty options available, what’s your favorite brew? Among our faves are Yogi, Choice and Indie Tea.

























I’ll start my diet on Monday:)
Salmon is very delicious food and also Omega-3.