American Heart Assoc. hosts National Eating Healthy Day; grocery stores & restaurants get involved

BROOKFIELD (WITI) -- They're foods that aren't typically on Deanna Ingland's grocery list, but on Wednesday, November 5th she started eating healthy.

"With someone who has an education in nutrition, they might be able to steer me to things that will help me improve my life and make me healthy," said Ingland.

Ingland is taking advantage of one of the many programs the American Heart Association and area grocery stores are providing for National Eating Healthy Day -- one of those being grocery shopping with a nutritionist.

"Eating healthy has a huge impact because 80% of heart disease and stroke is preventable," said American Heart Association Communications Director Jay Matz.

The American Heart Association wants people to take control of their heart health through their diet.

Participating grocery stores are giving out recipes and samples of healthier meal ideas.

"Eat as much fresh as possible. If you can avoid the pre-packaged foods, that really helps. There's a lot of added sodium in there," said Matz.

Nutritionists recommend people reduce their intake of sodium, trans fats, unsaturated fats, and foods and drinks loaded with sugar.

"Most people think soda, but that's also sports drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices that have added sugar," said Matz.

Ingland says she's learned a lot from National Eating Healthy Day, and she hopes others will make some changes when it comes to putting food in their grocery cart.

Along with grocery stores, many restaurants are serving healthier meals for the rest of the week.

Here is a list of participating locations: