12 Foods to Prevent Heart Disease
Heart disease is preventable, particularely if you adhere to a healthy lifestyle. One of the components of a healthy lifestyle is a healthy diet. While other factors may be present to increase cardiovsacular disease risk, such as a family history, certain foods can go a long way to support overall heart health and longevity. For instance, the following foods are linked to heart disease prevention:
1. Oatmeal
One of the top foods to prevent heart disease is oatmeal. It is rich in soluble fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol levels by preventing it from being absorbed into the blood. Oatmeal with fruits is a great food for heart patients.
2. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are good for the heart. They increase good cholesterol, reduce bad cholesterol, and are good for health in general. Walnuts and almonds, in particular, must be consumed regularly. Chia seeds and flax seeds that are rich in omega-3 can be eaten.
3. Edamame
Edamame is a soybean that has flavonoids, which can reduce bad cholesterol. Studies have shown that 50g of soy daily can reduce around 3% of bad cholesterol, making it a great food to prevent heart diseases.
4. Berries
Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are good for the heart. They have folate, fiber, and antioxidants. They are low in fat and must be a part of the diet.
5. Avocado
Referred to as a superfood, avocado can reduce bad cholesterol. It is good in potassium, which can improve the health of the heart and reduce blood pressure.
6. Tomatoes
While all vegetables are healthy, tomatoes are excellent to prevent heart diseases. The lycopene in tomatoes can lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart diseases. It is low in calories and is recommended for daily consumption.
7. Beans
All types of beans are good for your heart health. It reduces triglycerides and bad cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that regular bean consumption can reduce the risk of a heart attack.
8. Leafy vegetables
Leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens are strongly recommended to be included in the diet to prevent heart disease. They have antioxidants and fiber and are healthy.
9. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is another fruit that is good for health. With polyphenols and anthocyanin, they help in preventing hardening of the arteries. Drinking its juice daily can be beneficial in preventing heart diseases.
10. Apple
An apple a day keeps the doctor away is truly apt. Apples reduce cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of hardening of arteries. They have all the nutrients needed to improve heart health.
11. Liver
Of the various organs, the liver is rich in nutrients. It has folic acid, which is good for heart health. It also has other minerals like zinc that can keep the heart healthy and prevent heart disease.
12. Beet
Beetroot has betalains that help reduce inflammation and are great antioxidants. They can help in reducing blood pressure and are good for the heart.