Few American adults and less than one percent of children meet the American Heart Association’s definition of ideal cardiovascular health due to health factors including poor diet, inadequate physical activity and being overweight or obese.
Most U.S. adults and children are not eating the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. More education and resources are needed for all to help increase our intake of healthy foods.
The American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good movement celebrates Eat Smart Month this November with recipes and science-backed tips to help you to “Be The Best You”—at your peak—this holiday season and all year round.
While eating smart and maintaining a healthy weight is key, an overall healthy lifestyle that also includes getting at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity and not smoking, will help lead to the ultimate gift—healthy holidays for years to come.
Start today with these four tips and stay Healthy for Good:
Balance is Key. Enjoy splurging every now and then but don’t overdo it. If you miss a workout, take the stairs or park farther away from the entrance and walk.
Add Color to Your Plate. Practice choosing colorful foods to ensure you are getting enough fruits and vegetables!
Sip Smarter. Replace sugary drinks like soda with water or seltzer to avoid excess calories.
Keep the Family Active. Pick activities the whole family will love and get active together while you have fun!
For more resources to help you eat smart and to learn more, visit heart.org/eatsmartmonth.
—Russell Schiff, MD, FAAP, FACC, FASE, FAHA
Board President, American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Long Island
