By eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, reducing your fat and sodium intake, and being more active, you can significantly lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk of diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Some simple ideas include: reducing portion size, substituting fruits and vegetables for higher-calorie foods, buying fat free and 1% milk rather than whole or 2% milk, grilling, steaming or baking foods instead of frying, and using vegetable oils over solid fats. When buying groceries, you want to be sure most of your grain and cereal products are made from whole grains, not from refined flours. Stick to water, 100% fruit juices, and diet sodas.

For tips on how to make your favorite foods healthier, visit:
www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=355