By Madelyn Alexander, Communications Director of American Heart Association–Greater St. Louis Chapter
Eating smart is good for your heart, especially in the hectic holiday season. It’s easy to get off track from making healthy choices during the holidays, and the pandemic may add to the stress, so here are four healthy tips for this holiday season:
- Spice it up: A great way to reduce sodium is to add more herbs and spices such as rosemary and thyme to flavor meals.
- Choose nutritious snacks: To avoid overindulging at holiday meals, prep with satisfying, good mood foods that don’t sacrifice taste. Check out this no-added-sugars recipe for caramel kettle popcorn created by the American Heart Association and supporter SweetLeaf. It’s perfect for a tasty snack that will keep you feeling full and less tempted by those unhealthy choices.
- Shop smart: Grocery shopping during the holidays can be overwhelming. So if you’re looking for heart-healthy options, keep an eye out for the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark on select products.
- Mind your mind: This holiday season will probably look different, with more time spent at home. Find moments throughout the season to practice gratitude, meditate and relish the time. Managing stress is good for your head and heart.
During Eat Smart Month in November, the American Heart Association will provide 30 days of holiday hacks to inspire simple but important healthy habits. Text DailyHack to 51555 to join in.
For more healthy tips and recipes, visit heart.org/eatsmartmonth.
