American Heart Assoc. Encourages Americans to Reclaim Healthy Habits This Fall

DALLAS — As we dive into another unpredictable fall due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Heart Assoc. urges people to take time to nurture their body and mind for better overall health.

“After the past several months disrupted many of our typical routines, this fall is a great chance to reset and resume a more consistent work, school, and family schedule. Start small by committing to eating more meals together as a family,” said Dr. Anne Thorndike, associate professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, director of the Metabolic Syndrome Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, and volunteer chair of the American Heart Assoc. Nutrition Committee. “Routines can be a good way to provide structure and clarity during busy or stressful seasons, so scheduling in meals at home or regular exercise is not only good for physical health, but good for managing stress as well.”

When it comes to mealtime, there are plenty of clever ways to add in nourishing ingredients, notes Bridget Wojciak, director of Nutrition at Kroger Health, a national sponsor of the American Heart Assoc. Healthy for Good initiative, which helps people create positive, lasting change in their health and well-being one step at a time.

“It is a helpful frame of mind to ask yourself what you can add to a meal instead of taking away, like mixing in zucchini noodles with traditional noodles or adding in shredded vegetables to sauces or soups,” Wojciak said. “Experiment with new recipes and new preparations and see what works best for your family.”

For tips and recipes for a healthy heart and mind, visit heart.org/eatsmartmonth.