A plant-based diet rich in superfoods consisting of fish, vegetables, and colorful fruits is good for your heart and helps minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease. Here are 8 superfoods you can eat to keep your heart healthy.
Leafy greens will certainly help keep your heart in good shape. Eating vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are known to reduce high blood pressure and improve arterial functions, which in return is super good for your heart.
Berries promote a healthy heart due to health aiding antioxidants like anthocyanin, which reduces stress and inflammation that can contribute to the development of heart disease. Eating berries in smoothies, salads, cereal, and yogurt is all a part of a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Eating healthy fats like avocados is certainly a significant health booster. Avocados contain monounsaturated fatty acids that are a significant factor in lowering the risk of heart disease. Get your daily dose of healthy fats by eating avocados in salads, guacamole, sandwiches or breakfast dishes.
Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids which are important for lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. The American Heart Association recommends eating salmon and other omega-3 rich foods twice a week for extra health-boosting benefits that go beyond reducing your risk for cardiovascular disease. Other types of fish that contain omega-3 fatty acids include mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna.
5. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is good for your heart and here’s why! Antioxidants in dark chocolate like flavonoids play a positive role in supporting good cardiovascular health. For maximum benefits purchase dark chocolate with ingredients containing at least 70% of cocoa.
Tomatoes are packed with nutrients that are good for your heart including antioxidants, Vitamin A and C, lycopene, and folic acid. Together all these powerful nutrients can help lower your risk of developing heart disease. Lycopene is known for fighting heart disease and can also be found in watermelon and red carrots.
Red wine is a great source of healthy antioxidants. Antioxidants can improve cholesterol and help maintain blood pressure levels. In other words, consuming one glass of red wine a day is actually good for your heart.
8. Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil has been associated with a number of positive health benefits including antioxidants, monounsaturated fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that those who consume olive oil on regular basis have a much lower risk of stroke, which is a leading cause of death in the United States.
Adding these 8 nutrient-rich packed superfoods to your diet will keep your heart healthy and lower your risk of heart disease.