Last Updated on March 8, 2026 by Daily News Staff

(Family Features) A crucial component of overall well-being, heart health can be a barometer for living a long, healthy and happy life. Because heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, taking steps to reduce your controllable risk factors – including poor diet, stress and inactivity – can set you on the right path.

From regular checkups and reducing stress to eating well – including heart-healthy snacks like grapes – and exercising regularly, these simple steps can help boost your heart health.

Know Your Numbers

Knowing key health metrics such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels and body mass index can help you and your health care provider identify potential risks early. Schedule annual checkups and discuss any concerns you may have about your heart health. Early detection and risk factor management can reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into your diet can ensure you get a broad range of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, all of which contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system. For example, leafy greens like spinach and kale are high in potassium, which helps manage blood pressure. Fresh grapes contain 7% of the daily recommended intake of potassium, are a good source of vitamin K and are also a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols, including flavonoids, that can help relax blood vessels and promote healthy circulation. Some studies also suggest grapes have a beneficial impact on blood lipids and more.

In fact, one study found women who consumed 1 1/4 cups of grapes every day benefited from reduced blood triglyceride levels, LDL cholesterol levels, inflammatory proteins and other markers of heart disease.

Bright, juicy and bursting with flavor, Grapes from California can be enjoyed by the handful or blended with rich bananas, tangy Greek yogurt and a hint of almond in The Great Grape-Acai Smoothie Bowl for a delicious blend of fruity flavors at breakfast, lunch or snack time – it not only tastes great, but supports a healthy heart. 

Get Moving
Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve heart health. Exercise strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood circulation and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, as recommended by the American Heart Association, such as walking, jogging or swimming with strength training exercises like lifting weights or using resistance bands mixed in to help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Manage Stress
Consider your stress level: chronic stress can negatively impact heart health, increasing blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga and regular physical activity can help manage stress levels and maintain a healthy heart. Additionally, taking time to engage in hobbies, spending time with loved ones and ensuring adequate sleep are stress-reducing activities that improve overall well-being and heart health.

To learn more about the heart-health benefits of grapes, and find additional heart-friendly recipes, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

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The Great Grape-Acai Smoothie Bowl

Servings: 1

Chicken:

• 1/2 cup red Grapes from California, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 banana
• 1 frozen acai fruit pack (3 1/2 ounces)
• 1/2 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Topping:

• 1/4 cup sliced red Grapes from California
• 1 tablespoon sliced, toasted almonds
• 1 tablespoon pepitas
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds

1. In small blender, combine grapes, banana, acai, yogurt and almond extract; process until smooth.
2. Pour into bowl and top with sliced grapes, sliced almonds, pepitas and chia seeds.

Nutritional information per serving: 420 calories; 19 g protein; 63 g carbohydrates; 12 g fat (26% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (5% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 45 mg sodium; 8 g fiber.

SOURCE:

California Table Grape Commission

Last Updated on March 7, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Oven-Baked Hash Brown Potatoes

If you love golden, crispy hash browns without the grease of a skillet, this oven-baked version delivers all the flavor with less fuss. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting side, these potatoes turn out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — every time.

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded potatoes (fresh or frozen — thawed & squeezed dry)
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional add-ins: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.

2. Prep the Potatoes

• Fresh potatoes: Rinse shredded potatoes under cold water, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
• Frozen hash browns: Thaw completely and press dry before seasoning.

Getting the water out is the secret to crispy hash browns!

3. Season & Toss

In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes with olive oil (or melted butter), salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika.

4. Spread & Bake

Spread the potatoes in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet. For patties, press small mounds into rounds.

Bake for 18–25 minutes, then use a spatula to flip. Continue baking another 10–15 minutes until the edges are perfectly golden brown.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Once crisp and golden, transfer to a plate, add your favorite toppings — think sour cream, chives, or cheese — and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crispiness

• Dry is key: The drier the potatoes, the crispier they get.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Give them space so they roast, not steam.
• High heat wins: 425°F ensures a crunchy outside and a tender inside.

Serving Suggestions

These hash browns pair beautifully with:

• Eggs any style
• Grilled sausages or bacon
• Avocado and salsa for a breakfast bowl twist
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out more comfort classics and kitchen tips right here on STM Daily News.

🍽️ Happy cooking from STM Daily News!

Last Updated on March 5, 2026 by Daily News Staff

(Feature Impact) Coughs and sniffles don’t have to derail you for long – not with a fresh, homemade stockpot full of Sick Day Chicken Noodle Soup. Loaded with rotisserie chicken, celery and carrots, it’s sure to warm you from the inside-out as a warm, comforting meal. Plus, with eight servings, this dish can help solve dinnertime dilemmas throughout the week by storing leftovers in the refrigerator and reheating on the stove.

Warm up your winter meals with more comforting ideas available at Culinary.net.

Sick Day Chicken Noodle Soup

Recipe adapted from Tastes Better from Scratch

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 8

• 1/2       tablespoon butter
  
• 2          ribs celery, diced
  
• 3-4       large carrots, diced
  
• 1          clove garlic, minced
  
• 10        cups chicken stock or broth
  
• 1/8       teaspoon dried rosemary
  
• 1/8       teaspoon dried thyme
  
• 1/8       teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  
• salt, to taste
  
• pepper, to taste
  
• chicken bouillon cubes (optional)
  
• 4          cups dry egg noodles
  
• 3          cups cooked rotisserie chicken

1. In large stockpot over medium-high heat, saute butter, celery and carrots 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
2. Add chicken stock or broth and season with rosemary, thyme and crushed red pepper. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Taste and add chicken bouillon cubes, if desired, for flavor.
3. Bring to boil. Add noodles and cook until al dente. Remove from heat once noodles are tender.
4. Add chicken. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

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Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

Culinary.net

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/