National Have-a-Heart Day

National Have-a-Heart Day encourages more thoughtful food choices in support of cardiovascular health. Observed on February 14, it shifts some of the day’s attention from symbolic hearts to caring for the real one.

The observance appeared in a 2002 Washington Hospital Healthcare System calendar. In 2007, Penn Cardiac Care encouraged people to seek out heart-healthy menus or try foods that taste good while supporting heart health. No reliable source located identifies its creator or establishes a formal founding date.

Its message remains relevant: heart disease was the leading cause of death in the United States in 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The American Heart Association recommends an overall eating pattern emphasizing fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy protein sources, unsaturated fats, and minimally processed foods while limiting sodium, added sugars, and saturated fat.

How to Observe National Have-a-Heart Day

Celebrate by making one heart-conscious change to today’s menu. Try a new vegetable, substitute whole grains for refined grains, or prepare a meal with beans, lentils, nuts, fish, or another healthy protein source. When buying packaged food, compare Nutrition Facts labels for sodium, added sugars, and saturated fat. The American Heart Association’s recommendations can help you plan choices that suit your needs and preferences. Pair your meal with an enjoyable form of physical activity, and consider sharing the experience with someone you care about.

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