As we move closer to February’s end, so ends American Heart Month. But, taking care of your heart’s health is not exclusive to only this time of year. It’s extremely important to incorporate regular exercise and a healthy diet into your lifestyle year round. Lost on ideas? Check out three foods that will help your heart, and offer additional health benefits. Oh, we’ve even included smoothie recipes that include each food (blend and enjoy!).

1. Blueberries
Oh the power this little fruit has. Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants; blueberries are known to prevent blood clots and reduce artery inflammation. Not a fan of them? Strawberries have similar benefits as well. Include blueberries in a smoothie for breakfast and you are sure to find yourself feeling energized. Try this recipe:

Banana Blueberry Kale Green Smoothie
2 Organic Bananas
5 Leafs of Kale
1 Bag of frozen blue berries
2.5 Cups of Purified/Filtered Water
2 Tbl Spoons Hemp Seeds (hulled)
1 Tsp of any super food (this is optional)

2. Avocado
This green treat is packed with healthy monounsaturated fat, which lowers LDL levels. Infused with vitamin E, fiber, folic acid, and vitamin B; its perfect on a salad or as a dip (guacamole anyone?).

Raw chocolate pudding
4 Avocados
2/3 c cocoa powder
1.5 Tsp Stevia
1.5 Tsp Vanilla Extract

3. Oatmeal
Oats are high in fiber and a wonderful source of minerals and vitamins. Oatmeal is known to contain special antioxidants called avenanthramides, an agent that helps prevent free radicals from attacking good cholesterol and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
2 Sliced Apples
1/3 cup of brown sugar
1 tsp of cinnamon
2 cups of oatmeal
4 cups of water

Yvelette Stines
@calmingcorners

TAGS: American Heart Month, Diet, Dieting, Health