Heart-Healthy Choices Make Your Body Happy

Hearts are traditionally associated with love – whether in the form of pictures, cards, or even our own emotions! And when we show our physical heart some love, that ensures a longer, happier, healthier life. I’m Wendy Corr, and in today’s Wellness tip, I’ll give you some ideas on how to love your heart a lot more.
Your heart is like the capital city for your body – it pumps two thousand gallons of blood through arteries, veins and capillaries through about 100,000 electrical impulses and muscular contractions each day! So keeping your heart healthy means keeping the rest of your body running smoothly as well.
First and foremost, a healthy diet forms the primary structure for a heart-healthy routine.
When it comes to diet, if you can fit in 5 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables, you’ll make your heart very happy! Also consider adding in high-fiber legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains, cooked mushrooms, cold water wild-caught fatty fish, and healthy fats from olive oil and avocados.
But what about treats? Don’t worry, dark chocolate, green tea, and red wine are all full of anti-oxidants, and can absolutely be enjoyed in moderation!
And if you want to make your heart really happy, there are certain foods you should avoid, like excess salt, simple sugars and artificial sweeteners, along with man-made trans fats. All of these ingredients can cause damage to your heart and cardiovascular system.
And if you don’t feel you’re getting enough of the good, heart-healthy foods in your daily meals, consider supplements. Hibiscus tea, which is frequently added to fruity commercial tea blends, is one of the most effective herbal options for hypertension – many studies have shown that its effectiveness rivals popular pharmaceutical medications that treat high blood pressure. It also reduces bad cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar. Hawthorn berries, leaves and flowers are also effective in supporting heart health – but make sure you visit with your doctor if you’re taking certain pharmaceutical drugs that may interfere.
Between diet, regular exercise, stress management and adequate sleep, you’ll be showing your heart plenty of love!
Thanks for tuning in to Wellness with Wendy! I’m a certified holistic nutritionist, a mom, an entertainer and a radio personality – so finding balance is the key to my life. I love sharing tips and tricks to help you live your best life – so for more health and wellness news and advice, follow my blog on mybighornbasin.com. See you again next time for Wellness with Wendy!