Foods good for your heart
Every time we turn around, there is a new study out claiming that one thing is better for you than another. This food is better than that, it is better exercise this time of day than a different time of day, etc. First of all, I am going to tell you that exercising ANYTIME of day is good for you. It doesn’t matter if it is morning, lunch, afternoon, or night (just don’t make it too close to bed time or you might have trouble falling asleep). I am also going to give you 25 foods that are great for your health. Of course, you have to remember that everything should be done in moderation, so that doesn’t mean go eat an entire avocado in one sitting or drink 32 oz of cherry juice for breakfast. Do it a little at a time over a long period of time and you will reap the benefits.
Fresh herbs (rosemary, basil, cilantro, parsley, sage, thyme, oregano)- Cooking with these fresh herbs can help you to replace the salt and fat in your diet. Not only do they add tons of flavor, but they also contain antioxidants.
Oatmeal– You either love it or hate it but there are ways to make oatmeal taste great! Add some blueberries or cherries to this warm bowl of cereal that helps lower blood sugar and LDLs (bad cholesterol).
Barley– Use this in place of rice for awesome benefits. The fiber in barley can help lower cholesterol levels and may lower blood glucose levels.
Nuts (pecans, walnuts, Almonds)- Packed with Omega 3s, Vitamin E, fiber, and monounsaturated fats. Nuts help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation (especially in the arteries in your heart). They also help lower risk of type 2 diabetes and lower LDLs (bad cholesterol).
Olive Oil– Can help lower cholesterol, especially when you are using it instead of butter!
Carrots– Not only do carrots help you eyes from Vitamin A, they also help prevent type 2 diabetes. Eat them as a snack with some low fat yogurt.
Swiss Chard– Rich in potassium, fiber, lutein, and magnesium. Saute with olive oil and garlic until wilted and then serve under grilled lean meats.
Fish (especially Salmon, tuna)- Contains Omega 3s which lowers triglycerides and helps aid in overall heart health.
Soybeans aka Edamame– Help lower cholesterol and triglycerides. Have tons of fiber! 9 grams for only 1/2 a cup.
Black beans– These little superfoods are packed full of folate, fiber, antioxidants, and magnesium. They help lower blood pressure and sugar levels. (if you use the canned version, make sure you rinse them off to remove any excess salt)
Sweet Potatoes– Tons of fiber, Vitamin A, and lycopene. This superfood help lower chances of diabetes.
Oranges and Cherries and Blueberries– High in fiber, Vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and potassium. Great for heart health! Helps lower blood pressure and improve blood pressure function.
Red Wine– Contain antioxidants and can help increase HDL (good cholesterol). Remember to keep it to one glass….and don’t make that a pint glass!
Flaxseed– Good for your heart and help lower cholesterol. Contain fiber, phytochemicals called lignans, and ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in plants. Grind up and add to shakes, oatmeal, or yogurt.
Cayenne Pepper– Help control blood sugar. Sprinkle onto meats or into casseroles.
Coffee and tea– Help ward off type 2 diabetes. Just stay away from the giant mocha latte frap’s from coffee shops. They are loaded with fat and sugar and calories.
Low fat yogurt– High in calcium and potassium. Helps lower blood pressure.
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