How to Improve Heart Health with Raspberries

During Heart Health Awareness Month, we are reminded that heart disease still persists as the number one killer of Americans. But what you may not have realized is that up to 80% of heart disease is preventable! That's great news. A few shifts can make a big difference when it comes to our heart health-and when it comes to our diet, those changes can taste great too.

With healthy, heart-y greetings, Dr. Wendy

Here are some raspberry facts to remember:

They're packed with nutrition.

Here's a surprising fact: one cup of raspberries contains a whopping 8 grams of fiber in a mere 64 calories! They are low in total fat and have no saturated fat or cholesterol. They are an excellent source of vitamin C and contain a number of phytonutrients.

They are versatile.

Vibrant and delicious, raspberries strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet. This makes them versatile and easy to incorporate in a number of tasty and beautiful ways across the flavor landscape from breakfasts, to salads, to grain dishes

They require a little extra TLC-a little extra 'love'.

Raspberry handling tips: Always keep your berries refrigerated, and gently rinse them in a colander right before you're ready to eat or use them. I also recommend keeping them in their packaging when storing them in the refrigerator.

They're delicious! Straight out of the bowl or mixed into meals, they're tasty! Nutrish and delish.

Wendy Bazilian is a doctor of public health, registered dietitian and freelance writer in San Diego. She is Co-Owner and Chief Wellness Officer of Bazilian's Health Clinic with her husband and business partner, Dr. Jason Bazilian. Dr. Wendy is author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet (Rodale). Keep in touch with her on facebook at www.facebook.com/bazilians and on Twitter @eatmovebe.