Valentine’s Day is a day we show love by sharing our hearts with the important people in our lives…our partners, children, family and friends…
Love is nourishing, that’s for sure, but a heart needs more than that to thrive…
So, as a post-Valentine’s Day treat, enjoy one (or both) of these two heart-healthy powerhouse Juice Guru recipes…
Whip one of these up today and make sure that your heart beats strong for years to come…
Red Grape Strawberry Juice
Organic Ingredients:
- 2 medium-large bunches of red grapes (about 5 cups)
- 15 medium-large strawberries, green leaves intact
Directions:
- In a low-rpm juicer, alternate pressing red grapes and strawberries.
- Stir and serve immediately. Yields approximately 32 ounces.
Why is this juice heart-healthy?
The heart-healthy benefits of red grapes are well-documented. In fact, researchers believe that the use of red grapes in wine is the source of the so-called “French Paradox” – the idea that the people of France have relatively healthy hearts, despite the high level of saturated fats in their diet.
The cardio benefits of grapes include blood pressure regulation and reduction, better total cholesterol regulation, better inflammatory regulation in the blood, reduced LDL cholesterol levels and less clumping of platelet cells, among others.
The incredible heart benefits of strawberries are equally well-documented as a result of their outstanding levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
We can’t think of a more delicious way to get your heart in shape.
Love Your Heart Smoothie
Organic Ingredients:
- 1 cup of almond milk
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 Medjool dates (pitted)
- ½ – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (to taste)
Directions:
Blend all ingredients together in a blender and enjoy.
Why is this smoothie heart-healthy?
Every one of the main ingredients in this smoothie has phenomenal benefits for your heart.
Almonds help protect against diabetes and cardiovascular disease at the same time by lessening the increase in cholesterol-damaging free radicals that accompanies large elevations in blood sugar. Almonds also provide antioxidants to mop up the smaller amounts of free radicals that still result.
Bananas are a good source of potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining normal blood pressure and heart function. Just one medium-sized banana contains a whopping 400-plus mg of potassium. The sterols in bananas also keep blood cholesterol levels in check, and finally, the fiber helps to lower your risk of heart disease.
Blueberries are one of the most potent fruits when it comes to a healthy heart. In repeated studies of blood composition, blueberry intake (usually in the amount of 1-2 cups per day and over the course of 1-3 months) has been shown to reduce total cholesterol, raise HDL cholesterol, and lower triglycerides. They also help protect the blood components (like LDL cholesterol) from oxygen damage that could lead to eventual clogging of the blood vessels. Blueberries are also great for maintaining good blood pressure.
All that, and this shake tastes amazing too!
Drink one of these every day, and by next Valentine’s Day, you’ll have a stronger heart to share with those you love.
Here’s to you becoming your own guru.
