Food for your heart

Yogurt

Dr. Andrea Paul, a physician and chief medical officer at an online medical question bank, states the following “Yogurt protects against gum disease, which can increase your risk of heart disease,” she says. In addition to reducing your risk of heart disease, according to Paul when you eat low-fat yogurt, you also absorb powerful antioxidants, vitamins, fiber and probiotics that are beneficial to your overall health, digestion and well-being.

Watermelon

A low-calorie fruit that is high in fiber and a great source of antioxidants, according to Dr. Sarah Samaan, cardiologist with Legacy Heart Center in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. “It’s a fabulous source of lycopene, which has been linked to a lower risk for heart disease and cancer.” Watermelon is also a source of vitamins C and A, as well as potassium and magnesium.

Avocados

Avocados are full of healthy monounsaturated fats and are a source of potassium, a mineral also known for controlling blood pressure. They are also a great source of vitamin C, fiber and carotenoids. Carotenoids have been associated with a decreased risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain a solid dose of heart-healthy vitamin C and like watermelon, are rich in lycopene. Vitamin C works as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage.

Green Veggies

Low in calories and packing a hefty nutritional punch, green vegetables contain vitamins K, A and C, as well as folate, manganese, calcium, fiber and much more. These important nutrients allow your blood to clot normally, helping prevent calcification of your arteries.

Berries

Packed full of antioxidants, berries are a great snack choice to keep your heart healthy and strong. Berries increase good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol while lowering your blood pressure.

Nuts

As a convenient snack in a bag or on top of a salad, nuts can boost your heart functions with healthy omega-3 fats and antioxidants. Eating two ounces a day has been shown to improve blood vessel function among people with diabetes and also protect people from heart disease who are at risk for it.

Oats

Whole grains will keep your heart healthy and help you to maintain your weight, a necessary heart-healthy action considering that obesity is a risk factor for heart disease and heart-related complications. Whole grains have also been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.