If your family has a history of heart disease or blood pressure, it’s easy to worry about what you can and can’t eat to take care of your heart. Even if you’re not at high risk for heart problems, it’s important to make sure you don’t create that risk for yourself. Here are some WebMD recommended foods that are sure to help your quest towards better heart health.
- Edamame is already a great appetizer, but it also contains mangesium, folate, potassium, which can lower your blood pressure. Try some dry edamame for a snack!
- Salmon is one of the most common sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can increase your good cholesterol (HDL) levels, lower your blood pressure, and protect your arteries from buildup. Try grilled salmon as an entrée or as part of a salad.
- Red wine contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that lower your blood pressure and protect your blood vessels. But don’t go too crazy! A glass of red wine a few times a week is more than enough.
- Brown rice has the B-complex vitamins you need to reduce blood clots and increase your HDL cholesterols. There are plenty of microwaveable brown rice packets out there, and they make a great part of any meal.
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that protects your heart. Tomatoes have been shown to protect against cardiovascular disease, skin damage, and even certain cancers.
- Flaxseeds contain the same kind of omega-3 fatty acids as salmon, but it’s easier to think of them as a garnish than as their own food. Try using flaxseeds in smoothies, on oatmeal, or in salad dressing if you want to make the most of this food.
- Dark chocolate contains the same flavonoids as red wine, making these two the most indulgent heart-healthy foods on the list. A square or two of dark chocolate a day will do your heart some good.
It’s easy to work a few of these foods into your diet every week. If you do, you may be doing that much more to help your heart in the long run.
What's your favorite heart-healthy food?
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