As American Heart Month Wraps Health, Heart Health Is Important Year Round

As the month of February and the recognition of American Heart Month winds down, it is important to realize that good heart health is important every day of the year, and part of that is a good, healthy diet that is low in fat, cholesterol and salt. Lauren Kroeger, who is Clinical Nutrition Specialist for the Wellness Center with Prisma Health Upstate, was a guest on The Coffee Time program, gave our listeners some tips on how to eat healthier. 

Kroeger says that a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, more whole grains that are higher in fiber, and lean proteins are excellent. Kroeger says that avoiding fried and processed fruits is a good idea. Kroeger also recommends more nuts and seeds in your diet along with lower fat dairy products and more olive and canola oil. Kroeger says to limit sodium and added sugars also. 

Along with a healthy diet, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control recommends maintaining a healthy weight, keeping a check of cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, eliminating smoking and limiting alcohol use, taking medications as prescribed, managing diabetes and exercising at least 30 minutes a day most day of the week are good tips in healthy heart management.