Nashville TOPS highlights heart-healthy food swaps

TOPS1573 Nashville met April 1, reporting a total weekly gain of one-half pound among members.

Mabel Leid was recognized as the best weekly loser and encouraged members to drink plenty of water, either flavored or plain. Leo Tope was named the best weekly KOPS.

The program was based on an April AARP: The Magazine article titled “Heart-Healthy Food Swaps.” Members learned nearly 80% of heart attacks and strokes could be prevented through diets rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy while limiting processed foods, added sugars and salt.

The program highlighted simple substitutions to make meals more heart-friendly including choosing quinoa instead of white rice, lentils instead of ground beef, frozen vegetables instead of canned vegetables, nuts instead of breadcrumbs, fiber- and protein-rich smoothies instead of fruit juice, and chicken breast instead of processed meat.

TOPS meets at Nashville Global Methodist Church at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, with weigh-in at 5 p.m.