When you say your significant other holds the key to your heart, it’s no joke. According to a Finnish study, a healthy, long-term relationship contributes to stronger cardiovascular function. It may not seem like such a surprise when you consider that happy coupling is associated with less stress and loneliness, more optimism and a satisfying sex life – all factors that can contribute to a happy ticker.
The research shows if you want to keep your heart strong, you better keep your relationship stronger. This Valentine’s Day, do both. Celebrate your love with these romantic, heart-healthy displays of affection.
First, pour the wine.
What’s a Valentine’s Day dinner without a bottle of red wine adorning the candlelit table? Wine happens to be loaded with good-for-you compounds, called resveratrol, concentrated in the skin, seeds and vines of red wine grapes.
Resveratrol is part of the polyphenol class of antioxidants and has been found to protect heart cells from free radical scavengers. Long the subject of research studies, it has shown to support help activate SIRTI, a gene linked to longevity.
Then, say it with chocolate.
The heart-shaped box of treats given to express your love can also be good for your heart. Unfortunately, you’ll have to look past the ganache-filled truffles to really reap the benefits. Like red wine, dark chocolate is chock full of resveratrol antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids, found in cocoa.
Dark chocolate with 70-85% cacao content contains other healthy nutrients that can support cardiovascular function and wellness, such as fiber, iron, manganese and potassium, plus plant-based fatty acids. You know chocolate is good for the soul—now you know why it’s good for the heart, too.
Finally, bring out the fruit.
Berries are colorful, aromatic and scrumptious, but that’s not all they have going for them. The bright pigment in blueberries, strawberries and cherries contain anthocyanins, another class of antioxidants that works to neutralize free radicals in the body. Berries are also high in heart-healthy fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.
Though berries often get much of the glory, other super fruits have been studied for their ability to support healthy heart function, as well. Bergamot, for example, is a small citrus fruit with a distinct flavor used in Earl Grey tea. Since citrus bergamot is not a commonly consumed fruit, it may be more beneficial to try it in supplement form. Bergamonte®, a patented and standardized extract of bergamot, has been studied to help maintain cholesterol, triglycerides and blood lipids in a normal range.*