American Heart Month was established under Presidential Proclamation 3566 by President Lyndon B. Johnson in December 1963, following a joint resolution by Congress. This initiative marked a critical juncture in America's dedication to combating heart and blood-vessel diseases. President Johnson emphasized the urgency of addressing this nationwide health issue and supporting the necessary programs for its resolution.
Today, heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally, posing a significant threat to American health. This reality underscores the importance of adopting a heart-healthy diet to prevent heart disease and its complications. Consuming excessive saturated and trans fats can lead to heart disease. In contrast, a diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol helps prevent high cholesterol. Reducing salt (sodium) intake can also lower blood pressure, and limiting sugar can control diabetes. Moderation in alcohol consumption is also advised to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Transitioning to a heart-healthy diet doesn't mean sacrificing taste. The CHEF iQ Smart Cooker offers an innovative and efficient way to prepare delicious, nutritious meals. Paired with the CHEF iQ App, which features a variety of guided recipes, this combination makes cooking heart-healthy dishes both convenient and enjoyable.
These recipes from the CHEF iQ App are so delectable that they feel more like gourmet cuisine than diet food.
Vegan Thai Peanut Lettuce Wraps
These Vegan Thai Peanut Lettuce Wraps are a delightful and interactive dish that caters to various tastes. The baked tofu, a key ingredient, provides a firmer and denser texture than regular tofu, enhancing the overall experience. For those looking to modify the recipe, almond butter can be an excellent substitute for peanut butter, and maple syrup can replace agave for a different sweetness profile. Additionally, adding quinoa or chickpeas can boost extra protein for non-tofu eaters. These wraps are not only heart-healthy due to their low saturated fat content but also provide a fun way to include more vegetables in your diet.
Ingredients: Peanut butter, coconut milk, agave, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, baked tofu, sesame seeds, ground ginger, lettuce leaves, shredded carrots, cucumber, red cabbage, bell pepper, salted peanuts.
Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oatmeal
Steel-cut oats are a nutritious option for a heart-healthy breakfast. The pressure cooking method in the CHEF iQ Smart Cooker simplifies the cooking process, delivering tender, flavorful oats without the need for overnight soaking. For those looking to add a twist, consider topping with almond slices for a crunchy texture or blueberries for a burst of antioxidants. This dish is excellent for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and provides a sustained energy release throughout the morning.
Ingredients: Steel-cut oats, turbinado sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla almond milk, vanilla extract, fresh berries, mixed nuts, honey
Cuban-Style Black Beans
This dish is a testament to the versatility and richness of vegan and gluten-free options. The blend of spices in Cuban-Style Black Beans offers a depth of flavor, making it a satisfying meal for any palate. For a variation, swapping black beans with pinto beans can provide a different taste profile. These beans are heart-healthy due to their high fiber content and serve as a great source of plant-based protein.
Ingredients: Olive oil, onion, garlic, tomato paste, dried oregano, ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, black beans, vegetable broth, fresh cilantro, and cotija cheese (optional for a non-vegan variant).
Minestrone
Packed with various vegetables, Minestrone is a hearty and healthy option for a fulfilling meal. To adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets, consider using gluten-free pasta. The high fiber content from the vegetables and beans in this soup benefits heart health, aiding in cholesterol control and providing essential nutrients.
Ingredients: Olive oil, large carrots, celery stalks, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, ditalini pasta, potatoes, kidney beans, baby spinach, lemon juice, parmesan, lemon wedges.
Herb-Brined Turkey Breast
Brining the turkey ensures it remains tender and moist, elevating the flavor profile significantly. For a healthier alternative, consider using a sugar substitute in the brine or reducing the amount of brown sugar. When prepared thoughtfully, this dish can be a heart-healthy protein option, particularly if accompanied by a variety of steamed or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients: Water, salt, brown sugar, garlic cloves, sage leaves, rosemary sprigs, turkey breast halves, poultry seasoning, black pepper, canola oil, and water.
Observing American Heart Month is easy-peasy and delicious with the help of the CHEF iQ Smart Cooker, paired with the CHEF iQ App.
