Great news, just in time for Valentine's Day: a romantic gesture that's good for your health, too!
Flavonoids: Foods that Are Good For Your Heart
What do chocolate (cocoa), red wine, and dark-colored berries have in common? They all contain plant nutrients called flavonoids, which are antioxidants. Eating foods with flavonoids have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by increasing HDL cholesterol (the "good" kind), and preventing plaque formation in the arteries.
Antioxidant-rich foods also improve circulation and heal free radical damage. "Free radicals" are cells in your body that have been damaged by age, stress, and environmental toxins. Antioxidants help restore your cells' original healthy function. What's not to love?
Quality & Quantity
Keep in mind that selecting the right "quality and quantity" of these treats is key to heart-healthy eating: less is more! Choose only dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (at least 70%), and limit your intake to 1 ounce daily.
Eat at least three servings (1/2 cup each) of berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries, per week for maximum benefits. And a heart-healthy serving of red wine is 4 ounces (about half a cup).
Give your Valentine a heart-healthy gift that will ensure a great date night this year - and for many more to come!
We Wish You a Heart-Healthy Valentine's Day!