Summer is the perfect time to embrace healthier eating habits and take proactive steps toward heart health. With longer days and an abundance of fresh produce, incorporating nutritious and heart-healthy meals into your routine can be both enjoyable and rewarding. Here at Still Brands, we’re committed to supporting your journey to a healthier lifestyle, especially for men over 60. Let’s explore some delicious healthy eating meals recipes and discuss how they contribute to maintaining a healthy heart during the summer months. We’ll also highlight how Still Brands' products, such as our multivitamin supplements and protein powder, can complement your healthy eating habits and support overall well-being.
Healthy Eating for a Hearty Health
Heart disease remains a leading health concern for many, particularly as we age. However, making mindful dietary choices can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall well-being. A heart-healthy diet focuses on whole foods rich in nutrients, low in unhealthy fats, and high in fiber. Such a diet helps manage cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and body weight—all crucial factors in heart health.
Summer-Inspired Heart-Healthy Recipes
- Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon filets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush salmon filets with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill salmon for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- While the salmon is grilling, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocados, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Mix gently.
- Serve the grilled salmon topped with the fresh avocado salsa.
Why It's Heart-Healthy:
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Avocados provide healthy fats and potassium, promoting good cholesterol levels and heart health.
- Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
cuc- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. Combine quinoa and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Why It's Heart-Healthy:
Quinoa is a whole grain high in fiber and protein, promoting heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Black beans are also high in fiber and antioxidants, supporting cardiovascular health.
- Berry Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let cool, then slice.
- In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries, red onion, feta cheese, and walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey.
- Add the grilled chicken to the salad and drizzle with the balsamic dressing. Toss gently to combine.
Why It's Heart-Healthy:
Spinach and berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that support heart health. Grilled chicken provides lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
Heart Health with Still Brands Products
At Still Brands, we understand that maintaining a healthy diet is just one part of the equation. That’s why we offer high-quality multivitamin supplements and protein powder to support your overall health, particularly for men over 60.
Multivitamin Supplements
As we age, our bodies require a variety of vitamins and minerals to function optimally. Still Brands’ multivitamin supplements are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of older adults, ensuring you get essential nutrients that might be lacking in your diet. These vitamins help support heart health by providing antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and other heart-healthy nutrients.
Protein Powder
Adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, supporting metabolic function, and promoting overall health. Still Brands’ protein powder is an excellent addition to your diet, especially if you’re active or looking to enhance muscle recovery. Our protein powder is low in unhealthy fats and sugars, making it a heart-healthy choice to complement your summer meals.
Tips for Maintaining Heart Health in Summer
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your heart and body hydrated, especially in the heat.
- Choose Healthy Fats: Opt for sources of healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocados instead of saturated and trans fats.
- Limit Added Sugars: Reduce your intake of sugary drinks and snacks, which can contribute to weight gain and increased heart disease risk.
- Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as swimming, walking, or cycling, to keep your heart strong.
- Eat Fresh: Take advantage of seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are abundant in nutrients and flavor.
Embracing a heart-healthy diet during the summer can be both delicious and beneficial. By incorporating fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients into your meals, you can enjoy the flavors of the season while supporting your heart health. At Still Brands, we encourage you to make these recipes a part of your summer routine and take proactive steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of summer and nourish your heart with every bite!
For more tips, recipes, and high-quality supplements, visit our home page and embark on your journey to a healthier, happier you.