9 Amazing Red Foods For Heart Health
Apples have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease.2 This is because they contain many different compounds that improve various factors related to heart health. For example, they contain a phytochemical called quercetin which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Quercetin may also help prevent blood clots.
Apples contain soluble fiber, the kind that may lower harmful types of cholesterol.3 They also contain polyphenols, known for their antioxidant effects.4 One polyphenol, in particular, called flavonoid epicatechin, may help to lower blood pressure.
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, plus they’re loaded with vitamins and phytochemicals that work as antioxidants to protect your heart and other parts of your body.10 Oleic acid, the monosaturated fatty acid in avocados, is known for reducing inflammation throughout the body, especially in the heart.11
Avocado oil is healthy and safe for cooking because the fats in the oil are resistant to heat-induced oxidation, a process that makes some fats bad for you once they have reached a certain high temperature.
Leafy greens are packed with compounds that benefit your heart and vascular system. They are also rich in fiber, which can lower harmful types of cholesterol and reduce heart disease.12
Leafy greens taste great and are low in calories. Use fresh spinach leaves as a salad green or serve Swiss chard or kale as a side dish. Munch on fresh broccoli with a veggie dip at snack time.Tomatoes are packed with vitamins, and concentrated tomato products are high in lycopene. Adding lycopene to your diet may help protect your heart, especially if your current diet isn’t giving you all the antioxidants you need
Beans are rich in protein and fiber, and they have been shown to be good for heart health.
While they are calorie-dense, beans have not been found to increase weight.20
Beans are among the most versatile of foods. Many types of beans have distinct flavors, while others easily absorb the flavors of spices that are added to them. They can be a tasty addition to salads, stews, rice dishes, sauce, and soup. And you can eat them by themselves too.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/foods-that-are-good-for-your-heart-2507169