Stay Heart Healthy

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men and women alike, so recognizing early warning signs and seeking medical advice is crucial!

Generally men experience the ‘traditional’ symptoms including an uncomfortable squeezing or pressure in the chest area.

On the other hand, women may experience more ‘subtle’ symptoms such as frequent nausea or vomiting, fatigue and dizziness, and back or jaw pain, even before the ‘traditional’ symptoms set-in.

So take advantage of “American Heart Month” by loading up on information and jump-start your future to heart health. Check out: www.americanheart.org for more information.

As always ask your doctor for individual recommendations or treatments and make it a family affair -- engage the whole family in healthy meal and food choices and various physical activities for a healthy heart. You can begin with this wholesome favorite!

Heart Healthy Shepherd's Pie

Yield: 8 Servings
Nutritional Analysis per serving: Calories: 222; Carbohydrate: 24g; Protein: 15g; Fat: 8g; Cholesterol: 36 g; Sodium: 380 g; Fiber: 3g;

1 tbsp canola oil
1 lb 90% lean ground beef
½ cup chopped onions
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1tsp garlic powder
1 tsp white pepper
1tsp salt
1 bay leaf
4 oz. water
1 16-oz. package frozen peas& carrots
3-4 cups mashed potatoes (boxed/fresh)

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and spray a 9x9-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray, set aside.
2. Heat canola oil in a skillet and brown extra-lean ground beef until crumbly. Add all remaining ingredients except potatoes. Bring to a bubble and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Using the casserole dish spread meat mixture and top with mashed potatoes to form a crust 1 to 2 inches thick. Bake in a preheated oven for 30 minutes.
4. Enjoy with a tossed salad and a slice of warm whole wheat bread.

Health Department
City of St. Louis
Health Department web site