The American Heart Association has made it easier for consumers to buy heart-healthy foods – the Heart Check-Mark. This distinctive symbol is placed on food products that meet the AHA’s criteria for being low in saturated fats and cholesterol for healthy people over the age of two. In order to receive the Heart Check-Mark food products must be certified heart-healthy. To obtain the Standard Certification, the following nutritional levels need be met:
Ø Total Fat – 3 gm or less
Ø Saturated Fat – 1 gm or less
Ø Cholesterol – 20 mg or less
Ø Sodium – 480 mg or less
Ø Contain 10% or more of the daily value of 1 of 6 nutrients; vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein or dietary fiber
There is also a Whole-Grains Certification with additional requirements for Trans Fats, Whole Grain and Minimum Dietary Fiber.
The American Heart Association also offers an online grocery list builder with over 800 items listed to help you purchase heart-healthy items and take the guess work out of your shopping. Here are an additional 7 great reasons for using the Heart Check-Mark:
Ø It’s convenient making your purchase decisions easier
Ø You’ll save time by not having to read labels
Ø You can trust the information comes from a very reliable source, the American Heart Association
Ø It identifies heart-healthy foods that have passed the guidelines of the FDA
Ø You can find the Heart Check-Mark at any store because it’s a national program
Ø No tobacco products are allowed in the program
Ø It’s a winning program for you heart
For more information on the Heart Check-Mark and certifications, go to
www.americanheart.org
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