We all know that maintaining a healthy heart is very important for the overall well-being. In order to protect this vital organ, it is important to follow the right lifestyle which include eating healthy, reducing alcohol intake and exercising regularly. According to Healthline, high cholesterol levels, specially low-density lipoprotein (commonly known as bad LDL) is one of the main reasons for several heart diseases including heart attack and stroke.
In order to keep your heart healthy, you must include foods like legumes, nuts, fatty fish, whole grains and berries in your diet. According to Healthline, maintaining a healthy weight and increasing the consumption of monosaturated fats helps in reducing the bad cholesterol levels. You must also avoid smoking and trans fats like margarine and fried fast foods to keep cholesterol level under control.
But did you know there are some food combinations that can do wonders in reducing the bad cholesterol? If you also want to keep your heart healthy, here are five food combinations you must add to your diet:
Garlic And Onion
Both these staple kitchen items are an incredible solution for lowering the cholesterol levels. According to a report by National Institutes Of Health, garlic contains a compound called allicin that is known to be beneficial for cholesterol levels. Onions on the other hand contains quercetin that helps in preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Apart from adding to your curry, soups and gravies, onion and garlic can also be added to your salads.
Almonds And Curd
Both these food items are known to have several health benefits but their combination makes it an extremely beneficial duo for heart health. Almonds are rich in monosaturated fats and protein while curd contains probiotics that makes them an ideal food for lowering the bad cholesterol. You can eat these foods together as a breakfast or as an untimely hunger snack by combining it with your favourite fruits.
Green Tea And Lemon
Green tea is a popular beverage that has got numerous benefits. Being rich in antioxidants they not only help in lowering cholesterol but also supports weight loss. On the other hand, lemon is rich in flavonoids which is another cholesterol lowering compound. Both of them are usually consumed together by many people already but if you are not one of them, start it today.
Lentils And Brown Rice
Lentils and rice are a go-to comfort meal for most people in India. It is one of the most popular lunch options in the country. All you need to do is replace your regular rice with brown rice to keep your heart healthy. You can also enjoy them as khichdi. Lentils are rich in fibre and protein while brown rice is high in vitamins and minerals that reduce the cholesterol and heart diseases.
Turmeric And Black Pepper
Turmeric also known as “the golden spice” is known for its anti-inflammatory and cholesterol lowering properties. While black pepper contains piperine that helps in absorption of curcumin, an active compound of turmeric. The combination of these two spices can be used in curries, salads, teas as well as soups.