December and January are the peak season for heart attacks across the country. Much of the reason for this is due to drastic changes in diet, exercise habits, and weather. The holidays can be a time of extra work and stress, combined with a break in normal exercise routines and an increase in food. Your heart often takes the brunt of these changes in lifestyle, so prepare for this season carefully. Here are some delicious holiday foods that are better for your heart over the holiday season:
- Sweet Potatoes – these delicious holiday treats are actually packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants, beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin B-6, and potassium. Just remember not to smother them in butter and salt – instead, roast them with other seasonings like a bit of healthy maple syrup, which has 22% of your daily need for manganese as well as a good bit of zinc.
- Apples – Although one a day might not keep the doctor away, apples are a fantastic way to help prevent stroke, as well as preventing LDL cholesterol (known as “bad” cholesterol) from building up plaque in your arteries.
- Salmon – Packed full of Omega-3, Vitamins D, B-12, B-3, and tryptophan, salmon is a fantastic heart healthy holiday food. Season with herbs and spices, avoiding as much salt as you can.
- Leaner Meats – if you’re going to have a roast this holiday season, look for less fatty meats. Words like “prime” mean that it is high in fat, where words like “loin,” “chuck,” or “round,” indicate leaner and healthier meats. Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for ground beef, or mix them together and season well.
- Low Sodium Gravy – buy a low sodium broth and mix with flour and skim milk to make healthier gravy for your holiday dinners.
Remember, if you do experience pain or discomfort in your chest, don’t delay in seeking help. If your primary heart doctor recommends further treatment, contact us today. Dr. Mathew, the premier electrophysiologist in Sarasota, has been performing AF ablation in Tampa Bay area since 2004. Schedule an appointment to meet with Tampa Bay’s leading cardiologist.
