I have always loved February- the colors, the hearts, the flowers, the chocolate… But more than anything, I relish the chance to be flirtatious and express my love to my sweetheart.  All mushiness aside, February (AKA American Heart Month) is the perfect time of the year to reflect on all matters of the heart. Is my heart open to others? Do my loved ones know that I care for them? Am I taking care of my heart (emotionally and phycially)?

Valentine’s Day can provide a unique opportunity to improve on both the emotional and physical aspects of heart health. To set you up for success, here is a truly romantic recipe for a sexy and heart-healthy night out for you and your valentine:

  1. Go out for sushi (or seafood)! Fish, in either it’s raw or cooked form, is packed with cholesterol-reducing unsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids. Why is everyone so excited about Omega-3’s these days? Omega 3 fatty acids are a type of fatty acid shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body, lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, reduce stroke and heart failure risk, and boost our brain power! Valentine’s aside, we should aim for at least 2 servings of fish per week.
  2. Have a Heart-to-Heart: This Valentine’s Day, enjoy a deep and meaningful conversation with your sweetheart. Take the time to reconnect- talk about more than the mundane daily events. Talk about your emotions, ambitions, and dreams for each other. Verbally express the depth of your feelings for each other. Research indicates that people who are in supportive and loving relationships have healthier hearts, live longer, and have a higher quality of life.
  3. A Glass of Red Wine: While a high alcohol intake has been associated with an increased risk for heart disease, some research suggests that red wine may have an “it” factor. A moderate intake (an occasional glass) of red wine has been associated with lowering LDL cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel health.
  4. Dark Chocolate: This dark and mysterious treat is the perfect addition to your romantic evening. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants (disease-fighting warriors) linked to lowering blood pressure and improving circulation! As an added bonus, cocoa contains compounds that arouse feelings of passion and love. (Wink, wink!)
  5. For all the sweethearts out there, finish off the evening with a little snuggling.  Though it won’t replace the treadmill, a healthy physical relationship with your honey has surprising health benefits.  Research shows that regular intimacy may lower blood pressure, reduce the risk for heart disease, improve sleep, and reduce stress.

As with all matters of the heart (both physical and emotional), “What we love determines what we seek. What we seek determines what we think and do. What we think and do determines who are and who we will become.” –Dieter F. Uchtdorf.  Happy Heart Health!

On Valentine’s Day, try this heart-healthy and seductively delicious dessert, Dreamy Vanilla Bean and Blood Orange Chia Pudding.