This month we’ll be seeing a lot of red; bright red hearts, blush flowers in bloom, yummy chocolates wrapped in crimson foil, and of course that persistent glowing haze of romance in the air.
Ahhhh, doesn’t that set the mood? But that’s not all this month is celebrating. Many aren’t familiar with the origin behind this month’s popular tradition, Valentine’s Day. Saint Valentine, who during his time was a Roman Priest, was thrown in prison and ultimately gave his life for marrying young couples. It was thought that unmarried soldiers fought best because they weren’t preoccupied by a woman’s love, in which they’d hope to return.
Undoubtedly, I can speak for everyone when I say I’m glad laws have since changed, although it’s good to keep this history in mind when celebrating the holiday. It’s amazing when I stop and think how much I take for granted in my own life; health, education, freedom, and who’d have thought… love?!
This month we’re promoting heart-healthy meals with ‘red’ as the main ingredient! Red fruits and vegetables contain health-promoting phytochemicals for a healthy heart, memory health, and urinary tract health. Check out some of our ‘red’ recipes for Valentine’s Day, or any time of day. Help your heart stay healthy with these delicious treats and remember, love isn’t to be taken for granted.