Valentines DAY and your Heart

I love Valentines Day!
Anyone close to me knows this fact. I love finding simple and extravagant ways to express love to my family and friends for Valentines day.
My nephew is 15, and he still gets a Valentine from his Aunt Juju....
Valentines Day makes me think of our heart and there is no better way to care about someone than to help them with their health.

This month more specifically brings a focus on the heart.
I came across this article today that I believe is worth sharing.
It is from Dr Andrew Weil.
He lists foods that are best to avoid for a Healthy Heart.
More importantly he explains "why" they aren't good for you...excellent!

Read up!



Minimize these inflammatory aggravators in your diet to help promote optimal cardiovascular functioning.

1. Saturated fats. They can contribute to high cholesterol; avoid whole-fat dairy foods such as cheese, cream and milk, as well as red meat.
2. Trans-fats. Found in most margarines, snack foods, heavily processed foods and some cooking oils, these fats (often listed on food labels as "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated" oil) can reduce HDL ("good") cholesterol levels and raise LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.
3. Animal protein. Excessive animal protein has been shown to raise levels of homocysteine, a toxic amino acid. Instead of animal protein, try whole soy protein - aim for two servings of whole soy, such as tofu or edamame, per day.
4. Refined carbohydrates. A diet full of cookies, cakes, crackers, fluffy breads, chips and sodas can increase triglyceride levels and lower HDL.
5. Sodium. Excessive sodium has been linked to high blood pressure and heart disease. Avoid processed and canned foods, taste foods before you salt them and do not add salt while cooking, avoid foods that are visibly salted and read labels (aim for no more than 1,500 mg sodium per day).