How to keep your heart healthy

(WTNH) - February is right around the corner and not only is it the month of hearts and flowers, it is also healthy heart month.

Dietitian Pat Baird has a few tips on how to set a healthier table.

1) Choose the right fats:

• Experts agree the type of fat is more important than the amount of fat to keep the heart healthy.
• Solid or saturated, fat is the most damaging because it clogs arteries.
• Liquid, or unsaturated, fat is the least damaging, and some can promote heart health.
• Be sure to go get those great Omega-3's

2) Eat more plant sterols:

• Naturally occurring compounds in plant foods called sterols promote heart health
• They prevent the bad (LDL) cholesterol from being absorbed and causing damage
• Some foods naturally contain sterols, like vegetable change vegetable to corn oil; others, like margarine and orange juice, are fortified
• It's important to include some every day

3) Add more fiber:

• Fiber is the part of plant foods we don't digest.
• It helps lower cholesterol and improve digestive functions.
• Soluble fiber like oatmeal, whole grains and skins of fruits and vegetables are best for heart health.
• Eating more fiber, fruits and veggies, is the main message of the Dietary Guidelines and MyPlate.

4) Get moving:

• The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
• Make it fun and keep it cheap. No expensive gyms required.
• Go dancing.
• Get a walking buddy.
• Count you steps, aiming for 10,000 per day.