According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. To prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors are important for people who already have heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends the following;
- Watch your weight.
- Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
- Control your cholesterol and blood pressure.
- If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
- Get active and eat healthy.
The good news? Heart disease can often be prevented by making healthy choices. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to create opportunities for people to make healthier choices.
As a member of GFWC-NC, you can make a difference by sharing strategies for preventing heart disease and encouraging others to live heart healthy lives. Here are just a few ideas that you can implement in your family:
- Use spices to season food instead of salt.
- Make physical activity a part of your day. Include walking and/or some form of exercise each day.
- Develop a Healthy Eating Plan which includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products and lean proteins.
The more a woman knows about heart disease, the better chance she has of helping herself, her family, and others to avoid heart issues. This month GO RED for Women to inspire and encourage women to make lifestyle changes and shape policies to save lives. United, we are working to improve the health of all women and their families.
Healthy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
A lot of women are loving their Instant Pots! Here is a great recipe for the cold days of February. A bowl of chicken noodle soup always equals comfort. The vegetables add nutrition and an aromatic flavor. This soup can be prepared at a moment’s notice and turns mealtime into a warm and satisfying experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 3 medium carrots (thinly sliced)
- 2 medium ribs of celery, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 4 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, all visible fat discarded, cut into bite-size pieces.
- 3 cups water
- 3 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, minced.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (crumbled)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (coarsely ground)
- 6 ounces dried no-yolk noodles
Directions: Heat the oil in the pressure cooker on sauté. Cook the carrots, celery, and onion for 3 minutes, or until the carrots and celery are tender and the onion is soft, stirring frequently. Stir in the broth, chicken, water, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
1. Secure the lid. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure. Remove the pressure cooker lid.
2. Set the pressure cooker to sauté. Heat until the soup comes to a simmer. Stir in the noodles. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the noodles are tender, stirring frequently.
Nutrition Facts: 6 Servings, Serving Size 2 cups, Calories = 282 per serving, Protein = 30g per serving, Fiber = 3g per serving