We need to protect our hearts for life. If it gets sick, we miss out on so many things. What can we do to keep this organ healthy in the long term? By exercising regularly, drinking alcohol in moderation, stopping smoking and, of course, eating right. There are so many different foods that can have a positive effect on heart health. All we need to do is eat these superfoods regularly. Here are just a few of them!
A handful of nuts a day can effectively lower cholesterol levels, which protects the heart arteries from inflammation. Walnuts are packed with plant fats, omega-3 fatty acids, sterols and fibre. Plant sterols are also found in almonds. Almonds and walnuts both lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Sweet potatoes have a lower glycaemic index than white potatoes, so they do not drastically raise blood sugar levels. It is also high in vitamin A, fibre and lycopene.
Oranges are rich in pectin fibre, which is a great enemy of cholesterol. It also contains potassium, which is actively involved in regulating blood pressure.
Oats also help keep blood sugar levels stable, which is why they are very useful in preventing diabetes and for people with type 2 diabetes. The fibre in oats helps the heart function by reducing LDL cholesterol levels.
Flaxseed is very good for heart health for several reasons. It is full of heart-healthy fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, lignans and phytochemicals.
Low-fat yoghurt and kefir contain not only calcium but also high levels of potassium. These two minerals also support heart health and function.
Cherries contain high levels of anthocyanins. These are antioxidants that also have a positive effect on heart health by protecting the blood vessels.
Blueberries are also rich in antioxidant anthocyanins. These give the berries their dark colour and have a high vascular protective effect. Not to mention that this berry is also very high in fibre, which is also good for heart health.
