Heart Health

16 years ago this month my Father passed away at the age of 57 - heart disease, a silent killer. After a weekend spent together playing golf, beach walks with our new rescue dog and plenty of my Mum's amazing home cooking... aged 26 my world changed forever. I was lucky to have loved and had him as my father, heart disease takes so many gorgeous people from this world far.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of premature death in the UK, it is largely preventable by making simple lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, taking regular exercise and (of course) eating a healthy diet.

Protecting your heart involves eating foods high in antioxidants, bright colourful fruit and vegetables, fibre-rich plant foods and lean proteins. Foods to avoid include trans and saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, including sugars and eating and drinking in moderation.

The three most common risk factors for cardiovascular disease that be attributed to the diet are high cholesterol, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

Please look after your heart, not only for you, but for your loved ones.