February is American Heart Month!

February 21, 2020

February is American Heart Month! To celebrate, our Campus Dietitian, Tiffany Leon, has compiled a few tips and tricks to lead a heart healthy lifestyle.

Eat more plants! Fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains are packed with fiber. As a refresher, there are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber can help bind to toxins during digestion, and insoluble fiber helps to ensure these toxins are removed from your body. Eating a variety of foods can ensure you’re getting both types each day!
Choose lean proteins! Many people think of poultry or fish first, but you should consider plant-based options such as nuts, seeds, or legumes for your next meal.
Avoid added sugars! Everyone knows cakes, cookies and ice cream aren’t super healthy, but added sugars in everyday items like juices, smoothies, granola bars can all add up too. When you consume sugar, your body releases insulin to help absorb the sugar to use for energy later. This stored energy can have detrimental effects on your heart health, not to mention add to your waistline.
Sit less and move more! Research shows that sitting for long periods of time can be a harmful to your health. Every hour take a break from your desk, and get some steps in during the work day. Have time after work? The American Heart Association suggests at least 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes/week of vigorous exercise (or a combination!) HINT: This means ~30 minutes of moderate activity 5 days each week!