four heart makeovers: before and after

Cheryl howard

Diet tip: Cut back on salt, soda, and caffeine.

Fitness routine: Morning stretches, plus walking her dog three times a day.

Stress relief: I keep a journal and meditate daily. I also have hobbies, including creating hand-stamped cards and mini scrapbooks. It quiets and relaxes me.

For help: The American Heart Association’s GoRedForWomen.org.

Sample dinner recipe:
Serve with a green salad and fruit for dessert.
Saucy Chicken: In a large skillet cook 3⁄4 cup chopped onions and 8 ounces sliced chicken breast in olive oil until chicken is no longer pink. Stir in 1 clove garlic, minced; 3 chopped sweet peppers (red, yellow, and/or green); a 14.5-ounce can chopped tomatoes; an 8-ounce can no-salt-added tomato sauce; and 1⁄2 teaspoon Greek seasoning. Heat through. Serve chicken mixture over 2 cups cooked brown rice or whole wheat pasta. Makes 4 servings.