February is American Heart Month and Iowa State Extension is reminding Iowans that a heart-healthy diet has benefits for many parts of the body. According to Sarah Francis, ISU Extension and Outreach nutrition specialist, 20 to 25% of the blood pumped by the heart travels to the brain and there is evidence that heart health is connected to brain health.

Francis recommends the following tips for a healthy heart and brain: maintain a healthy body weight; reduce intake of high fat and high cholesterol foods; increase intake of antioxidant-rich foods, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains; and stay active.

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