Some healthy alternatives
Healthy alternatives for a heart-healthy diet
Eating healthier doesn’t have to mean tossing everything out of your fridge and cupboards. Moderation is key, and these tips and alternatives can help you make small changes as you work toward a healthier lifestyle. Remember to talk to your doctor before starting any diet.
Add more fiber and whole grains
There are good carbs and bad carbs. Foods made with whole grains are best for you. Look at the ingredient list, and if whole grains is listed first, you’re making a healthier choice.
Pick up the fruit
Instead of drinking a glass of fruit juice, which can have added sugar, just eat the fruit in its natural state.
Dress salads yourself
Many prepackaged salad dressings are high in saturated fats and unhealthy preservatives. By making your own dressings with high-quality oils and fresh ingredients, you’ll get a tastier, healthier alternative.
Go for the beans
Great sources of fiber, good carbs, and protein, beans are an affordable and healthy food.
Calcium is key
Everyone knows calcium-rich foods do a body good, but milk isn’t your only option. Consider leafy green vegetables, broccoli, and beans, all of which are great sources of calcium.
Go lean
Choose lean cuts of meat, which have less saturated fat, and low-fat milk.
Pass the potassium
Recent studies have shown that potassium-rich foods can help people lower high blood pressure. Many fruits and vegetables, like bananas, beans, tofu, and potatoes, are good sources. And consider baking, roasting, or steaming vegetables, as boiling can remove much of the potassium.
Avoid trans fat
As one of the bad fats, trans fat raises bad cholesterol that can increase your risk for coronary heart disease. Check labels on the food you buy for trans fat, and when you’re out to eat, stay away from fried foods and baked goods — unless you know the restaurant specifically doesn’t use trans fat.
