A healthy lifestyle starts with a healthy diet. And a healthy heart is maintained by giving your body essential nutrients and vitamins through a balanced diet. But did you know that eating a heart-healthy diet can be just as delicious as it is nutritious? Try increasing your intake of these foods and see how your entire body benefits. (And yes, dark chocolate is on this list!)
Salmon
Omega-3 fatty acids are what keeps your heart happy. These can be found in salmon, sardines and mackeral and are proven to lower the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries and irregular heartbeat.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and pomegranate seeds are proven to lower risk of heart attack in women ages 25–42. These berries provide healthy doses of antioxidants, which help your body fight free radicals, improve eye health and promote elasticity of the skin.
Flaxseeds
Enjoy flaxseeds in ground or milled form — they contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and phytoestrogens to boost heart health. Top your yogurt or smoothie with them!
Tomatoes
You’ve long heard about the benefits of lycopene, but juicy red tomatoes also provide Vitamin C and alpha- and beta-carotene. So enjoy that caprese salad or BLT — you’re helping your heart, skin and eyes all at once!
Citrus Fruits
Women who consume higher amounts of oranges and grapefruits have a 19% lower risk of stroke (caused by clots in the blood). Citrus fruits are also high in vitamin C, which has been linked with a lower risk of heart disease.
Dark Chocolate
You didn’t seriously think we’d leave out dark chocolate, did you? Recent studies have found that daily chocolate consumption could reduce nonfatal heart attacks and stroke. The findings applied only to dark chocolate — chocolate made up of at least 60-70% cocoa. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids called polyphenols, which may help blood pressure, clotting, and inflammation.
Am I a Candidate?
Determine if you are at risk for developing or already have symptoms for venous disease.