A Healthy Valentine’s Day

The following are recommended by the American Heart Association for a healthy and enjoyable Valentine’s Day. Value and celebrate this day with love and life. Keep in mind: The key to your heart is your sweetheart, but eating well and exercising is the key to a healthier you.

1. Rather than tempting your sweetie with sweets, consider a gift that has more permanence. Find a poem that describes your feelings and write it on beautiful paper for a handmade valentine.

2. Quality time is one of the most meaningful gifts. Plan for a vacation. Spend some time with your family.

3. If your kids are having a Valentine’s Day party at their school or day care, instead of sending candy, consider fresh or dried fruits and friendship tokens.

4. Cooking at home is an excellent way to control what and how much you eat. Prepare a romantic candlelit dinner at home. Prepare and use a healthy recipe.

5. Give to one another by giving back. Ask your love to volunteer with you at charity work or local organization. Giving back is a healthy habit that can boost your mood and help beat stress.

6. Use this day as an opportunity to tell your loved one how important they are to you, and share ways that you can support each other’s health and wellness.

7. Craving for something sweet? Gift a beautiful fresh fruit basket to your loved one instead of giving sweets with added sugars.

8. Sharing is caring – if you go out for a romantic dinner date, order one entrée to share. Many restaurant servings are enough for two – splitting will keep you from overdoing it.

9. Don’t forget to love your pet, too! Give your pet a Valentine’s treat and remember to walk or exercise them daily. Getting active with your pet will benefit your health and your bond with your pets.

10. Take it slow. If you receive an indulgent box of chocolates from your sweetie, stick it in the freezer and enjoy in moderation over the next several weeks.

11. Take a long, romantic walk with your beloved. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderately intense physical activity each week to stay healthy. You can reach this goal by walking briskly for at least 30 minutes five days each week.