Not only do we celebrate Valentine’s Day in February, but it is also “American Heart Month.” So be kind to your heart this month (and every month!) by enjoying some of the following heart healthy foods:

Seafood, esp. Salmon and Tuna
Ground Flaxseed
Oatmeal
Almonds or Walnuts
Red Wine
Black or Kidney Beans
Colorful Veggies, esp. Spinach, Carrots, Broccoli, Red Bell Peppers, Asparagus, Tomatoes, Acorn Squash, and Sweet Potatoes
Vibrant Fruits, esp. Papaya, Cantaloupe, Oranges, and Blueberries
Whole grains, such as brown rice
Soy, esp Soy milk and Tofu
Tea
Dark Chocolate (my favorite!)

Try this quick and easy heart friendly breakfast meal for starters:
Mix 3/4 cup old fashioned Quaker oats + 1 1/2 cups vanilla soy milk + 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon + 1 tsp ground flaxseed in a microwave safe bowl.  Microwave for 1 minute, stir, and repeat for a total cooking time of 3 minutes. Let stand 1 minute. Top cooked oatmeal with 1/4 cup each sliced almonds and blueberries. Wash it down with a cup of hot green tea. Your heart will thank you!  (And thank you Janice for doing this every month!)
 
Healthy Regards, Janice Holm, MPH, RD, CHES
Registered Dietitian & Health Educator
Owner, SoCal Nutrition & Wellness
janice@socalnw.com    310.270.8985