February is America’s official heart health month. This makes sense because it is also the month during which we celebrate Valentine’s Day, the holiday of our hearts.
We immediately recognize love as being connected to our hearts and we often express our love through the gift of food – particularly sugary sweet treats like chocolate. While sweets taste good, they are not exactly the heart-healthiest foods!
In celebration of Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, give plenty of hugs, of compassion, and understanding to those you love. (And if you want to give them a gift, check out our roundup of healthy Valentine’s Day gift ideas.) Then, cook up a heart-healthy recipe for you and your loved ones to enjoy!
Avocado Breakfast Bruschetta – This quick and easy to prepare morning meal is the perfect combination of good fats and protein to start a heart-healthy day. It also makes a perfect lunch, dinner or snack!
Sweet Potato Nachos – These seasoned sweet potatoes are a fun, delicious, and heart-healthy appetizer the whole family can enjoy!
Tex-Mex Beef Stew – Add some spice to your dinner! This flavorful meal is easy to prepare when using a slow cooker.
Chicken Pot Pie – Need something warm and hearty for a cold winter’s night? Try this healthier spin on a traditional Chicken Pot Pie recipe!
Kale with Nuts and Raisins – Kale is a nutrient-dense superfood. Add your favorite nuts or a handful of pumpkin seeds to make this a hearty meal or side dish with a unique flavor!
Top 5 Spaghetti Squash Recipes– Choose one of these spaghetti squash recipes, each with a tasty twist that’s sure to make your mouth water! Using this spaghetti squash eliminates the processed carbs found in pasta and rice, which can increase triglycerides.
Mousse a la Banana – There are many heart-healthy ways to satisfy a sweet tooth! Try adding cocoa powder for a bit of chocolate flavor, or use Greek yogurt for extra protein.
If you’re a Health Advocate member with access to the Wellness Coaching program, reach out to your Wellness Coach for more heart-healthy meal ideas. And from all of us at Health Advocate, we hope you and your loved ones have a very happy, healthy, and delicious Valentine’s Day!
Have a question for a Health Advocate? Email nhess@healthadvocate.com, and your question may be the topic of an upcoming “Ask a Health Advocate” column!
