I'm sure you have known people who have had a heart attack or stroke.  They're all too common.  It would have been wonderful if those people - like both of my grandfathers - had known more about habits that would help them.  Sadly, both of them died (ages 60 and 63) long before most of that information was known.  So here are a few of the keys to heart health. There will be another post about this later in February.

1.)  Add more fiber to your diet. Studies show that you're less likely to have a heart attack if you eat the recommen-
ded 25 to 35 grams of fiber a day.  Whole grain breads, cereals are a start.  Consider Shaklee Fiber Plan Tabs, Fiber Plan Powder or Fiber Advantage Chewy Cinnamon Apple Bars for extra fiber.

2.)Eat nuts!  Those who eat 5 oz. of nuts a week are 1/3 less likely to have a heart attack.  However, they are also high in calories, so limit the amount if you are on a weight loss program.

3.)  Include soy in your meal plan, especially whole soy beans or high quality soy protein like Shaklee's Energizing Soy Protein, which comes in vanilla and cocoa, or the newer Shaklee Life Energizing Shakes, which come in 4 flavors.  I started on soy protein in 1985 and can vouch for it.

4.)  Get a move on!  Regular exercise reduces the risk of heart attack by up to 50%.  If it's a new habit, start slowly with some walking.  Check with your doctor if you have any issues that might impede exercise. If not, work up to 45 minutes, 4 or 5 times a week.  The good thing is that once you form a solid exercise habit, you will stick with it.  I started jogging in 1975 and have tweeked my exercise program a number of times, but have only stopped it when I had to - such as after lower back surgery in 2004.  Even then I started physical therapy 2 months later and went into my own program when it ended.

5.)  Drink green tea for several powerful antioxidants that reduce cholesterol and may even lower blood pressure.  The Shaklee 180 Tea is delicious and a blend of green, red and white teas rich in antioxidants.
It comes in Green Matcha or Pomegranate.