The heart is a very crucial organ that helps us to carry out our day-to-day activities. The function of the heart is to pump blood to every cell in the body. In order to achieve its role, this organ must continuously beat for a person’s entire lifetime. It is common knowledge that once the heart stops beating, a person usually dies. In a day, the heart beats approximately 80,000 to 100,000 times and pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood. It is clear that the heart is very important in the sustenance of a human being’s life, therefore it is made of a muscle different from a skeletal muscle to enable it to beat constantly. Since the heart is vital for humans, it is important to keep it as healthy as possible by exercising and eating well. Here are the top 10 foods that help strengthen the heart.
1. Oatmeal
Taking oats during breakfast is a good way to take care of the heart. Oats are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids, folate, and potassium.
This fiber-rich food lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) as well as keeping arteries clear. Coarse or steel-cut oats have more fiber than the instant varieties.
2. Salmon
Salmon is rich in proteins and fatty acids. Conducted studies show that eating salmon regularly reduces the chances of heart disease in the long run.
Salmon also lowers blood clotting, lowers blood pressure, and prevents irregular heart rhythm.
3. Soy Protein
This high-quality protein contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are healthy for the heart.
A diet rich in soy protein helps prevent cardiovascular disease as well as keeping the heart-healthy and strong.
4. Whole Grains
People who eat plenty of whole grains have a lower risk of heart disease and they also tend to be leaner. This is due to the fact that whole grains contain antioxidants, phytoestrogens, and phytosterols that protect against coronary disease.
The fiber found in whole grains also helps to reduce the chances of heart disease.
5. Avocado
Avocados are packed with mono-saturated fats, which help to lower LDL while raising the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) in your body.
Avocados also allow for the absorption of carotenoids and lycopene, which are essential for heart health.
6. Yogurt
Yogurt is loaded with calcium, vitamin D, and protein.
All of which are good for the heart as they help to reduce cholesterol.
7. Almond
Almond has numerous treats for the heart. It is loaded with monosaturated fats, vitamin E, minerals, and fiber.
Studies show that almond helps lower levels LDL.
8. Tomatoes
Tomatoes help to keep the heart-healthy.
They are rich in vitamins C and A, potassium, fiber, and lycopene.
9. Spinach
This dark green vegetable is considered to be the best vegetable. Its rich dark color comes from the multiple phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals –iron & folate.
all of which help to protect against heart disease.
10. Blueberries
Finally, you can boost your heart’s health by adding blueberries to your diet on a regular basis.
These berries are packed with fiber and vitamin C both of which are good for the heart.
Aside from these top 10 foods that help strengthen the heart, water is also good for the heart. Drinking plenty of water replenishes our bodies and helps keep the heart-healthy.