HeartStrong Meals
At HeartStrong Meals we believe that nutritious food is the foundation of a healthy life. Our mission is to make heart health accessible and delicious by offering expertly crafted meals designed to support cardiovascular wellness. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to wholesome, heart-healthy meals. Each dish is prepared with balanced nutrients, wholesome ingredients, and a touch of culinary creativity, ensuring you never have to compromise on flavor while caring for your heart.
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Our Meal Kits
Feedback from our pilot study shows that families thoroughly enjoyed the kits:
"I had never had a zucchini before and was also unsure about the bell peppers but I tried it anyway and loved it!"
"My kids came home the next day after school, and asked if we had any leftovers from the food last night!"
"Putting the meal kit together was a wonderful way to bond and connect with my daughter!"
Kid Friendly Chicken Enchiladas
Italian Style Sheet Pan Chicken
The Mediterranean Diet
What Makes HeartStrong Meals So Healthy?
Here at HeartStrong, we adhere to the well-researched Mediterranean Diet and recipes from the American Heart Association but add salt-free premium spice blends. These Meal kits would not be possible without the collaboration with Chef Loui Liagridonis of Grovestone Gourmet store that is located right here in Champaign, IL! Chef Liagridonis is the creator of all our heart healthy spices that are featured in our meal kits.
What Is The Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet is a primarily plant-based eating plan that includes daily intake of whole grains, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, beans, and other legumes, nuts, herbs, and spices. Other foods like animal proteins are eaten in smaller quantities, with the preferred animal protein being fish and seafood.
Benefits of The Mediterranean Diet
1
Lowers Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
The Mediterranean diet has been widely recognized for its benefits in improving cardiovascular health. Studies have demonstrated its positive impact on key risk factors, including better regulation of blood sugar levels, reduced blood pressure, improved total-to-HDL (good) cholesterol ratios, and lower levels of C-reactive protein—a significant marker of inflammation and disease. By emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, the Mediterranean diet supports overall heart health and helps mitigate the risks associated with chronic conditions.
2
Lowers Risk of Metabolic Syndrome
The Mediterranean diet has been shown to decrease the risk of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a collection of risk factors that increase the chance of developing heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
3
Lowers Risk of Certain Types of Cancer
The Mediterranean diet positively affects the incidence of certain kinds of cancer such as prostate, biliary tract, head-neck, bladder, gastric, colorectal, and breast cancer.
4
Slows Decline of Brain Function
Studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet has contributed to slowing the decline of the brain along with decreasing the risk of alzheimer's disease.
5
Supports Healthy Body Weight
The Mediterranean diet not only supports healthy weight loss but also showed signs of improvements in diabetes, blood glucose, and insulin levels.
About the Founder
Angela Bradley is a passionate advocate for food equity and a dedicated leader in the fight against hunger. With over 18 years of experience as the Director of Stone Creek Food Pantry, Angela has worked tirelessly to ensure that no family in our community goes without a meal.
Under her leadership, the pantry grew from serving 8 families a month to becoming the largest food pantry in the County, expanding its reach through innovative programs, partnerships with local organizations, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of food insecurity.
Angela believes in the power of community and has inspired countless volunteers, donors, and advocates to join the cause.
Driven by a deep sense of compassion, Angela is committed to building a world where access to nutritious food is a right, not a privilege. Her vision continues to shape the mission of HeartStrong and serves as a guiding light in the effort to create a hunger-free, healthy food future.
Other Resources
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