SEATTLE, March 14, 2023 – March is National Nutrition Month and according to the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, a healthy diet is an important component of overall health and well-being, including supporting oral health and the prevention of heart disease and stroke.
According to the American Heart Association’s 2021 Scientific Statement, a heart healthy eating pattern includes consuming a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, selecting whole grain products, opting for lean and/or high-fiber proteins, using non-tropical plant oils and limiting sugary beverages, salt and alcohol.
As prices at the store are rising, some may wonder if it is possible to achieve both a healthy diet and stick to a budget. The good news is, with a little advance planning it is possible to purchase heart healthy items and maintain a budget. Below are five tips to help you achieve both goals:
Plan your meals each week. Keep recipes, grocery lists and coupons in one place to make planning easier.
Make a shopping list. Inventory what you already own to avoid double purchasing something that is in your pantry. Use your meal plan to find out the ingredients you need for your weekly recipes and avoid impulse purchases at the store.
Search for savings. Utilize loyalty programs at your local store. Clip coupons or use coupon apps for added savings. Take advantage of any in-store discounts or sales.
Compare prices at the store. Look for store brand products and compare prices. Sometimes you may have a coupon for an item, but it’s not always the best deal. It’s also important to read the nutritional label on each item and select lower sodium and lower sugar options.
Shop smart. Buying in bulk and purchasing products that are in-season are easy ways to save.
“Following a heart healthy diet also supports the health of teeth and gums.” said Kyle Dosch DDS, Delta Dental of Washington dental director and volunteer expert for the American Heart Association. “Dentists have long recommended limiting sugars, drinking tap water and brushing your teeth after the occasional sweet treat. Research studies have found links between untreated gum disease and an increased risk of heart infection due to the inflammatory responses of your body. More and more we are speaking to patients about how a healthy overall diet can be a preventative measure and contribute to not only heart and oral health but entire body wellness.”
“I encourage everyone to use National Nutrition Month as an opportunity to examine your diet to see if any modifications need to be made,” said Dr. Dosch. “Small changes do add up and better checkups at the dentist and with your medical provider would be a fantastic result.”
To learn more about making lasting changes to improve your heart health, visit heart.org/healthy-living.
Delta Dental of Washington is a proud local sponsor of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative.
Additional resources:
- Shop Smart & Save Infographic
- Seasons of Eating Infographic
- Cooking healthy on a budget heart.org article
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Valerie Koch: valerie.koch@heart.org