Simple Recipe Swaps for a Healthier You
Aug 26, 2025 10:05AM ● By Anika Mills

You can boost the nutritional value of meals and support your heart health by making smart substitutions – like using whole grains, healthy oils and lower-sodium options – to reduce saturated fat, added sugars and sodium while adding beneficial nutrients like fiber, protein and healthy fats.
Another nutrition-conscious swap you can make easily is opting for fat-free or low-fat plain Greek yogurt in place of full-fat sour cream and other dairy products. A single serving typically provides 10 or more grams of protein and roughly 13% of the daily recommended value of calcium. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, a balanced diet that includes regular consumption of unsweetened, nonfat, plain yogurt for individuals with hypertension may help improve blood pressure outcomes.
Start doing your heart a favor with these favorites that replace full-fat ingredients with low-fat or nonfat Greek yogurt, helping you reduce calorie intake and fat content without compromising flavor.

Mango and Pineapple Tropical Parfaits capture the flavors of ripe fruit, silky yogurt and crunchy granola in every spoonful of paradise while ruby-red pomegranate and coconut top off this island treasure.
Fruity Oatmeal Yogurt Parfaits provide a protein-packed breakfast to start busy days while Frozen Yogurt Bark – a chilled delight with less than 100 calories per serving – helps you indulge without overdoing it.
A diet that involves smart swaps like these may contribute to heart health, per the American Heart Association, by providing essential nutrients and supporting healthy blood pressure levels – meaning you’re just a few ingredient substitutions away from enjoying a more nutritious, yet still delicious menu.
These yogurt-inspired recipes were developed as part of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, which is nationally supported by Danone.
Discover more easy, flavor-packed ways to make your favorite recipes healthier for your heart at heart.org/eatsmart.