The Power of Nutritious Food & Heart Health
Written by Lillian Groff, Dietetic Intern
February is American Heart Month. This month is when all people are encouraged to prioritize their cardiovascular health. Heart disease is one of the most common chronic diseases. It is the leading cause of death for men and women. In the year 2022, 1 in every 5 deaths in the United States was caused by heart disease. There are many causes of heart disease, the most common factor leading to heart disease is high blood pressure. Almost half of all U.S. adults have hypertension which puts them at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke.
THE POWER OF NUTRITION
Diet and lifestyle play a vital role in managing and preventing heart disease. A healthy
diet can positively impact heart health, blood pressure, inflammation, cholesterol levels,
and triglycerides. At Nutrition for Longevity, our heart-healthy meals provide whole foods, plant-forward, anti-inflammatory ingredients that support healthy metabolism and may reduce the risk of certain illnesses. We aim to support healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure, promote a healthy weight, improve gut health, and support metabolic health.
THE LONGEVITY DIET AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Dr. Longo, the author of The Longevity Diet, found that the fasting-mimicking diet
related to cardiovascular diseases resulted in reduced abdominal fat and circumference,
a decrease in the inflammatory risk factor of C-reactive protein, a reduction in total and
LDL cholesterol, decreased triglycerides, a reduction in blood pressure, and a reduction
in fasting glucose. Dr. Longo recommends limiting animal protein, focusing on plant-consuming fish, and high amounts of vegetables, legumes, beans and lentils, whole grains, extra-virgin olive oil, and nuts.
1 DAY SAMPLE MEAL PLAN:
Breakfast:
-Peanut Butter and Banana Overnight Oats with a Cup of Black Coffee
Lunch:
- Southwest Quinoa Salad → Quinoa, Black Beans, Roasted Corn, Mixed Greens,
Red Cabbage, Carrots, and Chipotle Dressing
Snack: Raw almonds
Dinner:
- Lemon Salmon with Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli