Be heart smart by eating right and finding a balance between food and physical activity
 

Nutrition recommendations for a healthy heart include:

Decrease saturated fat - Saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol levels.  It is found in butter, red meat, bacon, sausage, cheese, cream, and whole milk.  It comes mainly from animal products.

Decrease trans-fat - Trans-fat can also raise blood cholesterol and is found in small amounts in red meat, but most trans-fat is created.  It is created when manufacturers use hydrogenated oils; therefore it is found in a lot of processed foods.  Read labels and choose foods without trans-fat.

Choose foods higher in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats - Foods high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats include, almonds, nuts, avocado, and olive oil.  These fats may have a beneficial effect on your blood cholesterol.  Remember, keep these foods in moderation if you need to lose weight.

Eat fish two times per week - According to the American Heart Association, eating fish two times per week can lower your risk of heart disease.  Fish such as, salmon, tuna and mackerel are especially high in omega 3 fatty acids, which may decrease the risk of blood clots and can also lower triglyceride levels.

Eat more nuts - The FDA has stated that "evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol and not resulting in increased caloric intake may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease."  This included peanuts, almonds, pistachios, walnuts and pecans.

Eat high-fiber foods - Fiber may help lower cholesterol.  Foods high in fiber include:  whole-wheat bread and crackers, oatmeal, fresh fruit, vegetables, beans, and high-fiber cereals.

MORE NUTRITIONAL GUIDELINE LINKS: (These will open in a new window for your convenience.)

CSD Wellness Policy
http://www.christina.k12.de.us/SchoolBoard/WellnessPolicy/index.htm

CNS Snack Guidelines
http://www.christina.k12.de.us/ChildNutrition/SnackGuidelines.htm