February is Heart Month, literally; a time to focus not only on our heart’s desire but also on keeping our actual hearts healthy.  While Heart Health Month highlights the importance of protecting our hearts and preventing cardiovascular disease, it also fills store shelves stocked full of heart-shaped chocolates and sales on Valentine’s Day treats.  That said, you don’t need sweets to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and you can still be romantic without indulging in high fat and high sugar treats. Here are a few ideas to help enjoy the day while keeping your heart in mind.

Plan a romantic activity to get you and your loved one moving. Take that salsa class you’ve always talked about trying, go skating, or take a romantic stroll. There are plenty of non-food-related activities suitable for Valentine’s Day. But yes, we all have to eat at some point!  Time to put your creative healthy eating thinking cap on- chocolate isn’t the only thing that’s romantic. In my case, my boyfriend does not have a sweet tooth (I know, lucky him right?).  His ideal treat is crackers with hummus, so last year I made him a card, and bought him wholegrain crackers and hummus.  He loved it!  So ask your Valentine what snacks – beside dessert – he or she might find appealing. You might be surprised!

Unfortunately, not everyone can truthfully claim a love of hummus over chocolate. If chickpea dip doesn’t do it for you, there are other healthy foods that promote a healthy heart, particularly fruit and veggies. Instead of candy, create a fruit basket with plenty of red: strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, apples, red pepper, and tomatoes are all good options.  Paired with a heartfelt card and glass of red wine, this can suddenly be romantic. Cook dinner for two with some of Health Check’s healthy recipes , or make your own heart-shaped whole grain pizza.

For those Valentine’s Day sceptics (which included me up until 3 years ago) there are many fun things to do on the 14th with your friends and family.  Get active with some classes: try yoga, zumba, or pilates.  Plan a healthy potluck – and throw in some fish full of heart-healthy omega 3’s for good measure.

Of course, it’s hard to completely avoid treats this month.  If you decide to indulge, go with dark chocolate, at least 70% cocoa (a heart healthy antioxidant).  For those who aren’t fond of the bitter taste of dark chocolate, pair it with some fruit.  Watch out for fake “fruit” fillings that are mostly sugar.  Just remember: everything in moderation (i.e. tell your partner not to buy you an entire box of chocolates that you may end up polishing off yourself).  Most of all relax and enjoy a lovely Valentine’s day!