According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of American adults have some type of cardiovascular disease. Statistics also show that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. If you want to keep your heart healthy and strong, your diet is a great place to start. Eating a heart-healthy diet can improve your heart health and help you live a longer, healthier life. Here are some of the best foods for heart health that you should consider including in your diet:
1. Fatty Fish
Some of the best foods for heart health are those that contain omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have been proven to help lower triglycerides, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of heart attack caused by plaque in your arteries. Some of the best sources of omega-3s are fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout, and tuna. It’s generally recommended to eat fatty fish twice per week to benefit your heart.
2. Berries
Berries are also some of the best foods for heart health. Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc., are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols. These nutrients can help fight heart disease and other chronic diseases. Berries are also excellent sources of vitamin C, which may be linked to a reduced risk of stroke. Try adding berries to your diet wherever you can, such as toppings on cereal, salads, and yogurt or blended into smoothies.
3. Nuts & Seeds
If you want to improve your heart health, consider adding nuts and seeds to your diet. These are great foods for heart health because they are rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. Make sure you choose unsalted nuts to avoid consuming too much sodium, which can raise blood pressure and negatively affect your heart. Instead of sugary, salty, or processed snacks, eat a handful of nuts to satisfy your hunger and benefit your heart.
4. Cruciferous Vegetables
Vegetables that are members of the Brassica family are considered cruciferous vegetables. They include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, arugula, bok choy, turnips, radishes, and others. These are some of the best foods for heart health because they contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that have antioxidant properties to help fight heart disease. These veggies can be added to salads or smoothies, or you can roast them with a little olive oil and spices to enjoy as a tasty side dish to your meal.
5. Oatmeal
If you have high cholesterol, then one of the best foods for heart health that you should consider eating is oatmeal. Oatmeal contains beta glucans, a type of soluble fiber that has been found to help lower cholesterol and support weight control. This food also contains potassium and magnesium, which are minerals that are excellent for your heart. For a heart-healthy breakfast, add nuts, seeds, or berries to a bowl of oatmeal.
6. Beans & Legumes
Beans and legumes are more of the best foods for heart health. These foods are rich in soluble fiber, a nutrient that can help lower cholesterol. They also contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. Eating a serving of beans, lentils, or peas each day may help reduce LDL cholesterol and keep you feeling full, which can also support weight control.
Keep Your Heart Healthy with Supplements
It can be difficult to get all the nutrients your heart needs from diet alone. That’s where supplements come in. Certain dietary supplements can help supply your heart with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and function properly. Heart BEETS Ultra is a comprehensive supplement that contains a variety of heart-healthy nutrients, including vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, and natural heart-healthy botanicals.