Best Foods To Eat For Heart Health

Healthy Fats

Making sure you have a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and herring. Flaxseed, walnuts, and chia seeds are also high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids can be found in vegetable oils, such as corn, sunflower, and safflower, and in walnuts, pecans, and pistachios. Eating a variety of foods from both categories is important for maintaining heart health.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals. Aim to eat a variety of brightly coloured fruits and vegetables each day. Eating foods such as tomatoes, spinach, blueberries, and oranges can help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. When shopping, try to choose organic options as much as possible to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals.

Whole Grains

Whole grains contain essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber and protein. Eating whole grains can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. Eating a variety of whole grains, such as oats, quinoa, brown rice, and barley, can provide many health benefits. When choosing grains, opt for the whole grain variety whenever possible.

Legumes

Legumes are a great source of protein and fiber. Eating legumes regularly can help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. Some examples of legumes include lentils, black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, and peas. Try to include a variety of legumes in your diet, as each type offers different nutrients.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are full of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Eating a handful of nuts and seeds each day can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. Some examples of nuts and seeds include almonds, walnuts, pistachios, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and sesame seeds. Eating a variety of nuts and seeds is important for maintaining heart health.

Healthy Drinks

Staying hydrated is essential for keeping your heart healthy. Try to drink plenty of water each day and limit your intake of sugary drinks. Green tea and hibiscus tea are full of antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to coffee, try adding a splash of almond milk and a dash of cinnamon.