February is “Heart Health Month”

(Undated) – February is “Heart Health Month” and the U of I Extension is promoting healthy eating. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says heart disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. adults. Changes to lifestyle, including food choices, can improve symptoms like high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure. According to U of I Extension Nutrition and Wellness Educator, Caitlin Mellendorf, it’s important to be mindful of sodium, fat, fiber, and added sugar when thinking about heart health. She says sodium can bring an individual’s blood pressure up, fat can increase your cholesterol, and added sugars increase the likelihood of cardiovascular issues. She says, on the other hand, fiber is a great way to move out cholesterol and help to improve heart health.