When it comes to cooking, you must make sure that you create the delicious dishes your family will love and will keep them in shape. If you want to take care of your heart to ensure a long and healthy life, then you should start cooking smart! So read on as I show you the 5 tips for cooking to help you have a healthy heart.
5 Tips For Cooking to Help You Have a Healthy Heart
Invest In Appliances That Don’t Require Oil
It all begins with the right investment. Fortunately, there are many appliances and equipment that encourage healthy cooking and a healthier body. I urge you to invest in a Power Airfryer XL, as well as steamers for vegetables and blenders for a breakfast smoothie.
Investing in these products will make cooking so much easier and without the hassle.
Avoid Frying and Try Other Cooking Methods
The problem with frying is that you will use a lot of oil, which would usually get absorbed in the food you consume. I recommend you NOT to fry and use too much oil anymore, only going for your usual stir-fry a few times a week. Explore the world of cooking and start trying new methods that require less oil, such as baking or consuming salads without the need for cooking (yes, raw is good for your heart and tastebuds!).
Include More Plant Foods for Protein
While meat is known as an excellent source of protein, you will also need to lessen the consumption of red or fatty meat to keep your heart healthy. To still get your protein fix, go for plant-based sources such as tofu, soybeans, or dairy products.
If you do have meat, I recommend you to have more fish and to reduce your trans or saturated fat from processed meats, from hot dogs, salami, or bacon. When cooking fat, drain off the fat and use a paper towel to absorb as much oil as possible.
Create Smart Food Swaps
While there are some foods we feel like we can’t stop eating, what you can do is to go for alternatives instead.
Opt for replacing cheeses high in fat with low-fat options, such as reduced fat feta or skim mozzarella. For thickening sauces, go for fat-free milk instead of whole milk. And as much as possible, go for dairy products lower in fat.
Other smart food swaps include baking your deserts using dark chocolate and low-calorie sweeteners. And instead of the usual potato chips from the store, you can use a Power Airfryer XL, which can fry and make kale chips without the oil, cutting a LOT of calories but with more vitamins.
Go For Omega-3 Fatty Acids
While you should lessen the oil in your food, you shouldn’t try to get rid of it all! Fat is healthy, as long as you eat the right amount of it. Opt for omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to your heart health, preventing any diseases and keeping you satiated for longer. When cooking, add a bit of canola or flaxseed oils, which contain omega-3 fatty acids. Having four ounces of fatty fish twice a week will do wonders as well. And when making salad dressings, try walnut oil or add walnuts.
In Conclusion
I hope this article on how to cook smart for a healthier heart helped you! So don’t wait any longer and begin your journey to wellness today.
If you have any questions or would like to share your tips and comments, then do comment down below. I would love to hear what you have to think.
Anna Leake is a health blogger that focuses on topics related to nutrition, fitness, and mental health. She was born in New York City but at age 6 moved to the Midwest where she spent her childhood exploring nature with friends and family. Anna graduated from University of Michigan-Ann Arbor with degrees in psychology & human development.
