When it comes to heart health what we eat on a regular basis can have a major impact. The old catchphrase “You are what you eat”, is actually based in fact.
With so much diet advice from so many directions, it can be confusing to know what’s what. That’s why we wanted to take a moment, not to just list foods that are beneficial, but also to let you know the reasons behind them and how exactly they can help support and potentially assist in repairing your health.
Here are our top 5 choices:
#1 Fish (Salmon, Tuna, and trout) these fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty acids strengthen cellular membranes throughout the entire body, especially in the brain. These fatty acids help facilitate communication between brain cells. They also provide the ability to make hormones that help with inflammation as well as blood clotting ability.
#2 Eggs – Each egg contains roughly 6 grams of protein, a building block for the body. They are a source of choline, which helps with metabolism and liver function. Vitamin D is also included and helps with strong bones and a high-functioning immune system. They contain lutein and zeaxanthin which are beneficial to eye health. Some studies have concluded that 1 egg per day lowered the risk of both heart disease and stroke.
#3 Berries – berries are fantastic for your heart. They are high in antioxidants and because of this, they lower cellular damage and oxidative stress as well as subsequent inflammation. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries all fall into this miraculous category. They are also low in calories, high in fiber, and chock full of Vitamin C. Berries really can’t be beaten as a healthy snack.
#4 Tomatoes – tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene. Lycopene can help to reduce LDL cholesterol as well as blood pressure. Lowering your LDL number helps lower the risk of developing heart disease. They also help ease inflammation and keep your blood flowing and free of clots.
#5. Nuts & Seeds – A diet containing seeds and nuts has been directly linked to boosted heart health. While they are a high-fat source, it’s the kind of fat your body needs – monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. They are great for your heart, hair, skin, and brain.
Eating a diet rich in foods that purposefully benefit the body can help you live a healthy productive active life. No one expects you to eat 100% clean every day all day, we all deserve a treat now and then, but the closer you get to that, the more your body will thank and reward you.
Interested in learning more about how diet can help your heart health?
Talk with Dr. Marconi and/or Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine Lipids, and Wellness of Fort Myers. We are a concierge membership health service. For more information or to book an initial appointment please call our office at (239) 362-3005 Ext 200. www.IMLWP.com to learn more.
