With the exception of one year, cardiovascular disease has claimed more lives than any other cause of death since 1900. More people die from cardiovascular disease every year than from a combination of accidents, respiratory diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
A quarter of these deaths are men from 35 to 65 years of age. Men are more likely to die in the prime years of their lives because they typically develop cardiovascular disease 10 to 15 years before women.
The following five foods are known for their ability to boost heart health. Incorporating them into your daily diet will provide your body with the nutrients it needs to maintain a healthy heart and may keep you from becoming a statistic.
1. Blueberries
It’s the antioxidants in these little berries that not only give them their deep blue color, but help keep your heart healthy by cleansing the blood of the free radicals that damage the blood vessels. The fact they’re full of fiber and vitamin C is almost like a bonus.
2. Salmon
Fish are known to be a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital to heart health. Deep-water fish like salmon are exceptional sources and should be included in your meal plans at least twice a week for maximum benefits.
3. Soy
Soy protein contains all the things a healthy heart loves, like vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Including this high quality protein can also lower your LDL cholesterol (the bad kind-think ‘lethal cholesterol’). Lower LDL levels play an important role in preventing cardiovascular disease.
4. Oatmeal
Another great way to lower cholesterol and protect your heart is with the whole grains, vitamins, minerals, and fiber found in oatmeal. Truly a super food, these grains supply the roughage we need to remain ‘regular’ and may even help prevent certain forms of cancer. To turbocharge your oatmeal with even more cardiovascular disease fighting power, add flaxseed or flaxseed oil and almonds.
5. Spinach
The deep dark green color of spinach comes from the many phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals contained in this powerful protective food. A good source of iron and folate (part of the vitamin B complex), spinach protects against heart and other diseases and helps maintain good eyesight.
The saddest thing about cardiovascular disease, besides the thousands of families torn apart each year by the death of a loved one, is that in most cases, the disease could have been prevented. Protect your cardiovascular health by including these five foods in your daily meals.
Other steps you can take include 30 minutes of daily exercise, no smoking, having your cholesterol levels checked and getting your blood pressure taken on a regular basis. Lose excess weight and enjoy a diet rich in vegetables, whole grains and fruit. Taking these steps gives you and your heart the best chance possible for a long and healthy life.
