Trans Fats

In June 2015, the FDA released it's final decision that partially hydrogenated oils are generally not safe in human foods. Trans fats may be identified on food labels as “partially hydrogenated” or “hydrogenated” oils—hydrogenated soy or hydrogenated palm oil, for example. How are they harmful? They raise the bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower the good cholesterol (HDL), which increases your risk for developing heart disease and stroke.

Lose the salt

Too much salt in your diet can cause fluid to build up in your body causing your heart to work harder and your blood pressure to rise. The AHA recommends less than 1,500 mg of sodium a day. Many canned and processed foods contain sodium as a primary ingredient and the sodium can quickly add up. Here are some tips on how to manage sodium intake: 

• Choose lower-sodium foodsv
• Use alternative seasonings such as Allspice, lemon juice or other herbs and spices
• Taste before you salt
• Eat fewer processed, prepared and pre-packaged foods
• Remove the salt shaker from the table
• Follow the D.A.S.H. diet
• Learn more about sodium and your health