Top Healthy Foods for heart-
Apples
Apples contain antioxidant compounds that prevent LDL cholesterol from oxidizing and building up in the arteries, and inhibit the inflammation associated with coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease.
Bananas
The potassium in bananas helps maintain normal heart function and the balance of sodium and water in the body. Potassium is also great for people taking diuretics for heart disease that can strip potassium from the body.
Yogurt
Yogurt can protect against gum disease and gum disease can increase a person’s risk for heart disease. Studies have also shown that the probiotics used to ferment yogurt can improve digestion and boost immunity too.
Raisins
Like yogurt, raisins combat gum disease because the antioxidants in raisins help fight bacteria that can cause inflammation and gum disease. People with gum disease are twice as likely to suffer from heart problems.
Chocolate
Chocolate can benefit cardiovascular health and boost the immune system by reducing inflammation. The flavanols in cocoa can help preserve the blood vessels and lower the risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain antioxidants, phytoestrogens and phytosterols that protect against coronary disease. Studies have shown that high-fiber diets are linked with a lower incidence of heart disease.
Beans
Beans contain soluble fiber that helps bind cholesterol and keep it from being absorbed. Bean fiber produces changes in short-chain fatty acids that can prevent cholesterol formation.
Fish
Studies have shown fish containing omega-3 oils is associated with a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease. Omega-3 oils can also help lower your blood pressure and can help prevent irregular heart rhythms.
Green Tea
Research has shown green tea contains key antioxidants that alter the body’s inflammatory response to the bacteria that can cause heart-threatening gum disease.
Nuts
Nuts contain vitamins, minerals, and mono-unsaturated fats that are all good for your heart health.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are high in lycopene and are a source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and fiber, a combination that can help prevent cardiovascular disease.
Berries
Studies have shown eating berries daily is associated with increased levels of HDL cholesterol and lower blood pressure.
Pomegranates
Pomegranates contain of polyphenols and tannins that can help to reduce the buildup of plaque in arteries and lower blood pressure. Research has shown that pomegranate juice has the highest antioxidant capacity when compared to other antioxidant-rich beverages including blueberry juice and cranberry juice.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a whole grain and contains polyphenols and antioxidants linked to improved heart health.
Red Wine
Studies have sown that drinking red wine in moderation can protect the heart by raising HDL cholesterol, decreasing inflammation and help prevent blood clots that can cause heart attack and stroke.
