February is American Heart Month, and we can take this time to focus on our cardiovascular health. 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., claiming the lives of more than 650,000 people each year. However, we have made considerable advances in the knowledge and treatment of this disease through research and innovation. 

Diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the disease is more rapid and effective than ever before thanks to new technology. But it still requires all of us to be vigilant, talk with our healthcare professionals and be on the lookout for risk factors like high blood pressure, bad cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and Type 2 Diabetes. 

With some work together as a community, we can prevent loss of life or lasting damage from heart disease. 

Brookshire Brothers is proud to be a partner to our community in the effort to fight this disease. We have heart healthy recipes and ingredients available to our patrons and pharmacists ready to offer support and information. 

Here are some heart healthy options the American Heart Association recommends considering when planning your next grocery trip:

• Fish with healthy fats and Omega-3 like Salmon, Cod and Tuna (eat fish at least twice a week)
• Items with naturally occurring sugars, not added sugars, like fruit and milk (be on the lookout for foods with ingredients like high-fructose corn syrup, fruit juice concentrates, molasses and sugar molecules ending in "ose" like dextrose, fructose, glucose, lactose, maltose and sucrose)
• Items low in sodium (less than 1,500 mg per day) like pizza with less cheese, fresh chicken rather than canned or processed, and low sodium options of items like meats, cheeses, condiments, etc.
• Ingredients with healthy fats like olive oil over options like vegetable oil
• Snacks and meal supplements packed with vitamins and antioxidants like walnuts and lentils

Find your local Brookshire Brothers or order online today with Brookshire Brothers Anywhere to start your journey toward heart health!