Eat Better - Life's Essential 8 Health Behavior

Summary

Eat Better is one of the health behaviors outlined in Life’s Essential 8™, the key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health, as defined by the American Heart Association. Better cardiovascular health helps lower the risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems. Key details listed below.

Create a Healthy Eating Pattern

Eat well-balanced meals throughout the day to keep your heart and brain working at their best. Don’t worry about “special foods” – a variety of healthy foods is best

• Enjoy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, plant-based proteins (like beans, lentils, nuts), lean animal proteins (like skinless poultry, fish, seafood, lowfat dairy). Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and unsweetened tea and coffee can also be enjoyed.
• Limit sweetened drinks and alcohol. Eat less salty food, fatty foods, and processed meats. Limit foods like butter, whole milk, full-fat yogurt, and cheese. Take the skin off poultry before cooking. Use plant-based oils, such as olive, canola, or avocado oil, instead of oils like coconut or palm oil.
• Avoid trans fats. Trans fats are found in some store-bought baked goods and fried foods.

Read Nutrition Labels

• Understanding food labels can help you make healthier choices.
• When you have more than one choice, compare nutrition facts. Foods with less sodium, bad fats (saturated and trans fats), and added sugars are better for you.

Don't miss our Tips for Success found here and the Fact Sheet infographic and other multimedia on the right column.

How to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease

• Know your numbers and follow the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8™
  • Health Behaviors: Eat better, be active, quit tobacco, get healthy sleep.
  • Health Factors: Manage weight, control cholesterol, manage blood sugar, manage blood pressure.

Please consult with your physician or healthcare team about what is best for your health.

Helpful Links:

• Statements & Guidelines | Statistics
• Embargo and Recording Policies
• Images | General B-roll and Animations
• Association Newsroom | @HeartNews 

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries and American Heart Association Expert Perspective:214-706-1173; AHAcommunications@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org