February, Heart Health Month, is a good reminder to care for your heart by reducing fat, bad cholesterol and sodium in your diet.

This is not always easy, especially with busy schedules making on-the-go snacks a necessity. This February, make simple snack swaps to keep your heart healthy and happy.

Craving crunch? Instead of reaching for potato chips, get a tasty crunch in a healthier way:

• Crisp apple slices
• Carrot or celery sticks
• Roasted chickpeas
• Lightly salted or seasoned popcorn
• Low-salt pretzels

Want salty snacks? Ditch salty crackers or french fries for lower-sodium options:

• Lightly salted nuts such as almonds or pistachios
• Multigrain crackers and cheese
• Rice cakes
• Cheesy popcorn
• Pita chips with hummus

Reaching for a can of pop? Substitute other refreshing beverages for sugary drinks:

• Plain or sparkling water with fruit added
• Fat-free milk (add a splash of chocolate for a little sweetness)
• Unsweetened tea or coffee
• 100 percent orange or apple juice
• Low-sodium tomato or mixed-vegetable juice

Feeling extra hungry? Choose snacks that keep you full:

• Whole-grain toast with a nut butter
• Low-fat cheese, such as aged cheddar or Swiss
• Fat-free yogurt or Greek yogurt with granola
• Fruit and veggie smoothie (try adding avocado or chia seeds)
• Guacamole or avocado hummus with low-sodium crackers or veggies

Trying to satisfy your sweet tooth? Enjoy natural sweet alternatives:

• Thin slice of angel food cake with strawberries
• Baked apple with cinnamon
• Frozen grapes or bananas (add peanut butter or dark chocolate drizzle)
• Greek yogurt-covered strawberries or raisins
• Frozen fruit juice pops

Try making these simple switches to ensure that snack time is delicious and heart healthy.