Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, but research shows it can be prevented by making simple lifestyle changes and adding certain foods that protect cardiovascular health into our daily menu.
Here are some essential foods for a healthy heart.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These acids can decrease triglyceride levels, provide good cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and the risk of arrhythmias, and slow the growth of plaque along artery walls. You can find omega-3 fatty acids in tuna, sardines, salmon, walnuts, oysters, herring, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and chia seeds.
Avocados
Avocados are full of powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and they’re especially high in potassium and monounsaturated fats. Eating a half avocado per day will help you lower bad cholesterol levels while increasing the levels of the good one, which contributes to optimal heart health.
Dark Chocolate
According to several studies, chocolate eaters have a lower risk of heart diseases compared to non-chocolate eaters. More specifically, chocolate is good for lowering bad cholesterol levels and improving blood clotting function. But typical chocolate is loaded with sugar and empty calories, so make sure to eat dark chocolate that is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, with a cocoa content of at least 70%.
Do your heart a favor and eat healthy every day!
