February marks Heart Month, a time to reflect on and prioritize cardiovascular health. Heart disease is a significant public health challenge in the Philippines. In 2022, ischemic heart disease was the leading cause of death in the country, claiming 121,558 lives, or 18.3% of total deaths (source). Cardiovascular diseases account for about one-third of all deaths nationwide, underscoring the need for preventive measures like adopting a heart-healthy diet (source).

The Role of Diet in Heart Health

What you eat plays a powerful role in maintaining a healthy heart. While traditional Filipino cuisine is rich in flavor, many well-loved dishes like lechon kawali, crispy pata, and chicharon are fried or prepared with margarine and shortening, both of which are high in trans fats. Regularly consuming these foods in excess can increase the risk of heart disease. 

Therefore, it’s important to incorporating the following principles into your meals which can improve your cardiovascular health:

Increase:

• Fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes)

• Lean protein sources (fish, nuts, legumes)

• Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens, turmeric)

Decrease:

• Saturated and trans fats (fried and processed foods)

• Excess sodium (processed and salty foods)

• Added sugars (sweetened beverages, desserts)

Transforming Filipino Cooking with Thermomix® TM6®

Thermomix® TM6® is the perfect tool for those looking to maintain heart health without compromising on the flavors of Filipino dishes. Here’s how it can help you create healthier meals:

1. Ease of Preparation
   With Thermomix® TM6®, preparing fresh, homemade meals becomes quicker and easier, reducing the need to rely on processed foods often high in unhealthy fats and sodium.

2. Precise Control
   The built-in scale and automated cooking programs make it easy to portion meals accurately and achieve balanced nutrition.

3. Healthier Cooking Methods
   Thermomix® TM6® allows you to steam and blend ingredients. Steaming, for example, preserves nutrients and reduces the need for added fats, making it ideal for cooking fish, vegetables, and even reimagining classic Filipino dishes with a healthier twist.

4. Customizable Recipes
   You can adapt recipes to suit dietary needs, such as reducing salt content, using heart-friendly oils, or adding more vegetables to your favorite meals.

Heart-Healthy Recipes to Try

Thermomix® TM6® makes it simple to prepare heart-healthy recipes that are both delicious and nutritious through the Cookidoo library:

1. Braised Cabbage and Leek with Steamed Salmon
   High in omega-3 fatty acids, this dish promotes heart function and helps reduce inflammation.
   Try it here

2. Red Lentil Soup
   A hearty, fiber-packed soup that helps manage cholesterol levels.
   Try it here

3. Anti-Inflammatory Pineapple and Turmeric Smoothie
   This tropical blend is packed with turmeric and pineapple, both known for their anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties.
   Try it here

4. Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash, Spinach, and Pomegranate
   A nutrient-packed salad that combines fiber-rich quinoa, spinach, and antioxidant-loaded pomegranate seeds.
   Try it here

5. Homemade Whole-Grain Bread
   A wholesome source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, perfect for sustained energy and heart health.

With Thermomix® TM6®, eating for health and happiness has never been more convenient—or more delicious. Ready to get started? Explore heart-healthy recipes or sign up for a Thermomix® TM6® cooking demo today!