Each year, around 697,000 people die in the U.S. from heart-related causes. A good number of these deaths could be prevented if changes were made to a patient’s health.
The foods you eat are the foundation for improving your heart health. After all, your heart is a muscle, working non-stop to keep you alive. The fuel you give it matters.
Good news. We’re here to help. To ensure that your diet supports good heart health, don’t miss out on these eight meal options.
Lean Meat
Lean meats are ideal for a heart-healthy diet due to their high protein and low-fat content. Lean proteins such as skinless chicken breasts, turkey, and lean cuts of beef and pork are great meal options for helping to keep your heart healthy.
Lean meats are especially helpful if you have a heart condition such as PAD. If you don’t know what PAD is, you can find pad symptoms in legs here.
Grilled Fish
Grilled fish is high in protein and low in saturated fats, providing a heart-healthy balance. They are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Grill a fish such as salmon, trout, cod, or halibut for a delicious, heart-friendly meal.
Oats and Other Grains
Grains are a good source of B vitamins, magnesium, selenium, dietary fiber, and oat bran, which helps to lower cholesterol. Studies have shown that a daily amount of oats can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds contain mono and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. These fats reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by helping you lower your bad cholesterol levels while also increasing your good cholesterol. A handful of nuts or a serving of chia, flax, hemp, or pumpkin seeds can make an excellent snack any time of day.
Leafy Greens
Adding leafy greens can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as they are a rich source of vitamins and minerals and are low in fat and calories. Greens, such as spinach, kale, lettuce, and swiss chard, are also high in dietary fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol levels.
Juicy Fruits
Fruits are full of minerals and vitamins that provide excellent nutrition and help protect the heart from illness. Fruits also contain antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation and other health risks. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are some of the best for heart protection.
Low Fat Dairy
Recent studies have suggested that those who consume higher amounts of low-fat dairy are less likely to suffer from cardiovascular-related issues. Low-fat dairy products are packed full of vital vitamins and minerals, especially calcium which helps to support strong bones, teeth, and a healthy heart.
Omelets
High in protein and low in calories, an omelet can be tailored to include healthy ingredients like vegetables. Unlike other breakfast options, omelets can provide you with the ability to create a balanced meal with various ingredients.
The Best Food for Heart Health
The aforementioned options are the best food for heart health. Let’s all make heart health a priority and strive to implement heart-healthy meals into our diets today!
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