Although we’ve recently moved toward body positivity, when we talk about “good” and “bad” foods, we still focus on whether they’ll help us lose weight. One thing is obvious: Not all foods are equal regarding heart health: There’s more to it than calories.
Some foods are great for your heart, and others aren’t so great. How can you improve your heart health by eating the right foods? Here’s what cardiologists and nutritionists say.
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Best Heart Foods:
Let’s start with the positive – the foods you should eat for better heart health. Among them:
Salmon
Salmon is good for your heart. A cardiologist at Pritikin Longevity Center says salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. According to research, omega-3 fatty acids reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors and benefit obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Beans, Cauliflower, And Lentils
Heart-healthy foods include beans, cauliflower, and lentils. Areces said these foods lower cholesterol. Studies have found that plant sterols and stanols, which look like cholesterol, can lower cholesterol when consumed in these foods. Apples and blueberries contain plant sterols and stanols as well.
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Worst Heart Foods:
Sadly, some delicious foods aren’t great for your heart. Some of them:
Processed Meats
Hot dogs are delicious but not very good for your heart. Hello heart’s medical adviser, Dr. Sanjeev Aggarwal, said even small amounts increase cardiovascular disease risk. The saturated fat in processed meats is unhealthy. Even low-fat options can cause high blood pressure.
Anything Super Salty
Beware of super-salty foods. According to Dr. Vicken Zeitjian, a cardiologist, a sodium-rich diet harms blood pressure, kidney function, and fluid regulation. Limit sodium consumption in processed and commercialized foods to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.