All the body systems are connected to the heart. As the powerhouse, the heart is a vital organ of humans. Even the Holy book made reference to it that we should guard it because out of it flows the issues of life. In case you don’t know your diet plays a major role in your heart health and can impact your risk of heart disease. Here are 10 foods to eat to improve your heart health:
1. Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables are high in vitamin K and nitrates, which can help reduce blood pressure and improve arterial function. Studies show that a higher intake of leafy greens is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
2. Whole grain
Studies show that eating whole grains is associated with lower cholesterol and systolic blood pressure, as well as a lower risk of heart disease.
3. Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants. Studies show that eating them can reduce multiple risk factors for heart disease.
4. Avocado
Avocados are high in monounsaturated fats and potassium. They may help lower your cholesterol, blood pressure and risk of metabolic syndrome.
5. Fatty fish
Fatty fish and fish oil are both high in omega-3 fatty acids and may help reduce heart disease risk factors, including blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol.
6. Walnut
Studies suggest that walnuts can help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure and may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
7. Beans
Beans are high in resistant starch and have been shown to reduce levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, lower blood pressure and decrease inflammation.
8. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants like flavonoids. It has been associated with a lower risk of developing calcified plaque in the arteries and coronary heart disease.
9. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and have been associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as an increase in “good” HDL cholesterol.
10. Almonds
Almonds are high in fiber and monounsaturated fats, and have been linked to reductions in cholesterol and belly fat.