By Niveditha Kalyanaraman
October 4th, 2023
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Diet plays a major role in heart health and can impact your risk of heart disease. Here are 10 foods that are good for your heart.
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Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens are well known for their wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In particular, they’re a great source of vitamin K, which helps protect your arteries and promote proper blood clotting.
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Adopting a diet rich in plant-based foods, whole grains, low fat dairy products, and sodium intake within recommended limits can help prevent and manage hypertension.
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Consuming sprouts can lower cholesterol levels in people with diabetes or obesity. One study showed an increase in “good” HDL cholesterol as well as a drop in triglycerides and “bad” LDL cholesterol.
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Avocados are an excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to reduced cholesterol levels and a lower risk of heart disease.
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Fish consumption is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, and mortality. Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish have a protective role in the risk of developing heart disease.
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Walnuts are a great source of fiber and micronutrients like magnesium, copper, and manganese. Regularly eating nuts, such as walnuts, is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
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Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and have been associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol.
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Almonds are a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, two important nutrients that can help protect against heart disease. They also cause reductions in cholesterol and belly fat.
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Lentils are rich in fibre, folate and potassium making them a great choice for the heart and for managing blood pressure and cholesterol. They are also a source of energising iron and vitamin B1 which helps maintain a steady heartbeat.
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Green tea contains polyphenols and catechins that can act as antioxidants to prevent cell damage, reduce inflammation, and protect the health of your heart.
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