Be A Heart- Healthy Valentine

Someone may hold the key to your heart this Valentine’s Day, but you hold the key to keeping that heart in good shape for years to come. February is American Heart Month so Valentine’s Day is a good time for five romantic and heart-healthy gift ideas.

1. Spice it up – Many restaurants offer heart-healthy menus but you have more control over what goes into your meal by cooking it yourself. Give your loved one the gift of healthy cooking classes. Many restaurants, schools and organizations offer classes on how to cook healthy food. It’s a great way to taste new food, learn something that will last a lifetime, and give you an excuse for a romantic candlelight dinner at home.
2. Something sweet – You don’t have to avoid a little chocolate on Valentine’s Day. Just offer your sweetheart some dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Studies show that some amounts of dark chocolate can help reduce the risk of heart problems.
3. Toast your love – You need something to go with that dark chocolate. How about a little red wine? Studies show that red wine in moderation may help prevent heart disease.
4. Massage – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that relaxation and stress relief are important for good heart health. You can melt that stress away with a couples’ massage.
5. Work it out – Exercise is important for a healthy heart. Give your special someone something that will make their workout more enjoyable. Try sports gear, a new workout outfit, or a gym membership. Does your Valentine like to dance? Turn up the music and hit the dance floor. Get out, get active, and get healthy together.