Age is just a number. Heart health can start as early as mom eating heart healthy foods while pregnant and will follow you through your entire lifetime. It’s never too late to start.
Preventing childhood obesity is important to preserving and prolonging heart health for a lifetime. Those people who eat heart-healthy diets have slower age-related declines in thinking abilities and memory as they get older.
Balance food and calorie intake with physical activity to maintain a healthy weight. The YMCA is here to help from youth programs to senior activities. You can check out our schedule and program line up at www.ymcanwfl.org
Choose from a wide variety of foods. Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables to get a full range of nutrients from food rather than over-the-counter supplements. Whole foods are complex, containing a variety of the micronutrients your body needs. Science says nutrient-dense foods not only make you feel great, but may even reduce your risk of certain chronic health conditions while providing multiple health benefits.
Decrease intake of all drinks and foods with added sugars. Make sure you are checking labels as there are many foods that have added sugars. Feeling thirsty? Water is always your best bet. There are many options that do not have sugar so shop around.
Eliminate ultra-processed foods as much as you can. Processed foods include meats that are preserved by smoking, curing, or adding chemical preservatives, and plant-based foods that have added salt, sugar, or fats. Be on the lookout for added artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that promote longer shelf life.
Fill your plate with whole grains and other foods made up mostly of whole grains. Whole grains are naturally high in fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied longer. These foods support healthy digestion and reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.