The lifespan of the average human being has increased by 50% in the last hundred years. One of the major contributing factors to longevity is a healthy diet. Although exercise is important, eating a diet rich in fibers and nutrients can help reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and type-2 diabetes. So, if you want to live a long, healthy life, you must have a healthy heart and that’s why you need to incorporate these 70 foods into your diet. To help you embark on your health journey, we have created a list of amazing foods that you should eat.
1. Figs
Figs are actually criminally underrated. They are both nutritious and tasty. Recent studies have suggested that figs can be helpful in treating a range of medical concerns such as eczema and diabetes. They are also helpful in reversing the effects of cardiovascular disease.
2. Chickpeas
They might be small, but don’t let their small size fool you. Chickpeas are packed with amazing cardiovascular nutrition. They are best known for lowering cholesterol and risk of heart disease as they are loaded with vitamins, potassium, and fiber.
3. Coffee
Ah, good news for all coffee lovers out there. Moderate intake of coffee can lower the risk of heart failure, heart disease, and stroke. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to your favorite café or make a cup of coffee at home.
4. Cranberries
Apart from its good taste, this fruit packs a lot of nutrients and antioxidants. Cranberries can be really helpful in lowering the risk of heart disease. They also prevent stomach ulcers, gum disease, and cancer.
5. Flax Seeds
If you do not want to eat nuts or fish but need omega-3 fatty acids, there is no better option than flax seeds. They are packed with estrogen, antioxidants, and nutrition – all of them help in promoting the health of your heart.
6. Grapefruit
Did you know that this amazing fruit packs a lot of fiber, potassium, lycopene, and choline? If you want to keep a check on your heart’s health, start eating grapefruit. It also helps in bringing down blood pressure.
7. Green Tea
This refreshing drink can play an amazing role in promoting the health of your heart. Green tea contains many antioxidants that not only help prevent arterial plaque buildup but also lowers LDL, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
8. Ginger
Ginger people are really appealing and so is the ginger root that not only adds flavor to the food but is extremely beneficial as well. This wonderful-smelling spice helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure and coronary heart disease.
9. Red Wine
Red wine can be really good for your heart. Feel free to drink it but in moderation, of course. Research has suggested that red wine has antioxidants that can help boost your HDL levels and prevent the buildup of cholesterol in your body.
10. Garlic
Apart from keeping the vampires away, garlic has health benefits as well. Garlic can be really helpful in lowering the plaque level in arteries, lowering blood vessel-constricting enzymes and bringing down blood pressure.
11. Chocolate
You must feel lucky as your sweet tooth can benefit the health of your heart. So, it is okay to enjoy your favorite chocolate bar from time to time. This sweet treat helps bring down the risk of heart disease and stroke. According to a Harvard study, regularly consuming raw cocoa can lead to no hypertension and better blood pressure.
12. Almonds
Almonds are tasty but did you know that they can help boost cognitive functions, combat heart disease, and reduce cholesterol? Due to the high level of plant sterols, almonds are able to prevent the absorption of LDL.