6 Simple Tips For Good Health

When you are trying to live a healthy life, there is no shortage of advice. Everywhere you turn, there are articles, magazine articles, books, television programs, and more that tell you what foods are healthy and which are not. The challenge comes in with so many different options available to you as a consumer - what do you look for in a healthy diet? Here's a breakdown of common foods and how they can help you:

There are many fruits and vegetables out there that will promote heart health and help keep you healthy, but here are a few you might not have thought about: banana. Bananas are one of the healthiest foods out there, but some people don't like them. This shouldn't prevent you from giving them a try - bananas are actually good for your heart. Eating a banana on a regular basis can lower your cholesterol and prevent your arteries from clogging up with fat. So don't write it off if you're a banana lover, just be aware that they might not taste as great in your mouth as they look.

Fish contain essential fatty acids, or fats, which are needed to maintain heart health. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish help lower blood cholesterol levels. They also help fight inflammation, which can weaken your heart and increase the risk of heart disease. Eat at least two to three portions of fish a week and take a fish oil supplement if you aren't already.

Cereals are another food group that some people don't eat enough of. They may seem like they are a nice treat during the holiday season, but you should be careful with the white ones - most of them are loaded with refined flour and sugar, which contribute to heart health issues and obesity. Opt for whole grain cereals and opt for those made from whole grain oats instead. If you need to eat the cereal for breakfast, choose a non-wheat option. Oatmeal is also a good option for breaking down breads and snacks.

Red meat is loaded with saturated fats that raise bad cholesterol and encourage the formation of clogged arteries. Try leaner meats such as poultry, fish, and beans instead. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet, particularly dark green leafy vegetables like kale, cabbage, and mustard greens. Limit your consumption of dairy products, such as eggs, cheese, yogurt, and milk, which are high in saturated fats.

Most snack foods are loaded with unhealthy fats and sugar, especially those that come from a box or package. Bananas are high in sugar, which can lead to an unhealthy appetite and can also contribute to weight gain. Cheese and junk food chips are even worse for you than excessive amounts of fat and sugar. Instead of eating them, snack on healthy alternatives such as low calorie and low fat cookies and granola bars.

High levels of saturated fats in red meat can cause plaque to develop in the arteries, which can block the flow of blood and may eventually lead to heart disease or stroke. This is why it's so important to choose healthy options for your menu. Choose poultry instead of red meat or fish, which are higher in omega-3 fatty acids. Opt for olive oil instead of butter, and unprocessed grains and seeds instead of highly processed grains.

Finally, exercise to keep your heart healthy and fight off disease. You can lower your risk of developing heart disease by simply exercising two to three times each week. Talk to your doctor about what kinds of exercises would be best for you based on your physical condition and other lifestyle choices. Being physically active can not only improve your mood, but it can also reduce your risk of developing any type of heart disease or stroke.