This month we are focused on all things heart related.  To get us kicked off we put together a list of heart healthy foods that are also just plain good for your body.  Try incorporating these things into your diet on a regular basis to get the benefits.

  1. Salmon- known to be high in omega-3 fatty acid.  Along with helping to normalize the heartbeat eating salmon also helps the arteries, which pump blood to every part of our bodies, remain free of plaque and therefore reduces all the categories of heart disease.
  2. Legumes-such as beans, lentils and peas which are an excellent source of protein.  They are also famous for helping to control blood sugar which is especially important for anyone that has diabetes.  Legumes have also been shown to lower the risk of heart disease.
  3. Avocado-another food that has a high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which is one of the healthiest fats and has a high fiber content which is important for digestion.  Eating avocados can lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar and help reduce the risk of heart disease.
  4.  Tomatoes-low in sugar, and high is potassium which is needed for healthy heart function. Due to the high level of minerals and nutrients eating tomatoes can help lower the risk for heart attacks and heart disease.
  5. Greens-such as spinach and kale which are high in carotenoids, an antioxidant that helps to free your body from harmful compounds.  Also, a great source of fiber and are paced with vitamins and minerals.
  6. Berries-such as blueberries and strawberries which are a great source of anthocyanins, another type of antioxidant.  The benefits of this antioxidant include decreasing blood pressure and dilating blood vessels.
  7. Walnuts- full of monounsaturated fats which help to reduce LDLs (which raise cholesterol) and increased HDL cholesterol which is thought of as the “good” cholesterol.   Plus, they are an easy snack!
  8. Green Tea- full of antioxidants to which has a restorative function in the body.  Studies have shows that drinking one cup of green tea every day can lower your risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.

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