Heart diseases are some of the leading causes of death worldwide. People suffering from heart diseases need to take extra care to prevent further complications.
One of the major causes of heart diseases is the build up of plaque in arteries, and this means that some foods can be helpful in unclogging arteries and preventing heart attacks. Here are the top 15 foods that can help unclog arteries and prevent heart diseases:.
1. Avocado
Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats, which is good for the heart. It contains beta-sitosterol which is known to lower cholesterol levels in the body.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that eating an avocado-rich diet could lead to a reduction in bad cholesterol levels in obese and overweight adults.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are high in antioxidants which can help lower the risk of heart diseases. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming blueberries daily could help lower blood pressure levels in postmenopausal women.
3. Spinach
Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals such as potassium, folate, and magnesium, which are vital for heart health. It also contains lutein, a type of carotenoid that helps prevent plaque build-up in the arteries.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in fiber, which is known to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound that helps prevent damage to blood vessels.
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that for maximum benefits, it’s better to eat broccoli steamed or sauteed instead of boiled.
5. Salmon
Salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of heart disease.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming fatty fish like salmon could help improve blood pressure levels in people with untreated hypertension.
6. Almonds
Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats which help reduce bad cholesterol levels in the body. They also contain magnesium which helps regulate blood pressure levels and prevent the formation of blood clots.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that consuming almonds regularly could help reduce the risk of heart disease.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is packed with antioxidants which help lower the risk of heart diseases. It also contains curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet effects.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism found that consuming turmeric daily could help improve endothelial function which is crucial for heart health.
8. Garlic
Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the likelihood of heart disease. It is also known to help lower blood pressure levels and reduce cholesterol levels in the body.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming garlic regularly could help prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries.
9. Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to lower bad cholesterol levels in the body. It also contains polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that helps protect the lining of blood vessels.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming olive oil daily could lead to lower levels of plaque build-up in the arteries.
10. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a compound that helps prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries. It also contains potassium which helps regulate blood pressure levels.
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that consuming tomato juice could help lower blood pressure levels in people with hypertension.
11. Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body and prevent the formation of blood clots. They also contain vitamin E, selenium, and magnesium, which are vital for heart health.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that consuming walnuts daily could help improve heart health in people with diabetes.
12. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants which help prevent plaque build-up in the arteries. They also contain polyphenols, a type of compound that helps protect the lining of blood vessels.
A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that consuming pomegranate juice daily could help improve cardiovascular health in people with metabolic syndrome.
13. Green Tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants which help reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains catechins, a type of compound that helps regulate blood pressure levels and improve circulation.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming green tea could lead to lower levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
14. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, a type of compound that helps protect the lining of blood vessels. It also contains magnesium which helps regulate blood pressure levels.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that consuming dark chocolate daily could lead to a reduction in the risk of heart disease.
15. Whole Grains
Whole grains are packed with fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels in the body. They also contain vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which are essential for heart health.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming whole grains regularly could help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Conclusion
These are the top 15 foods that can unclog arteries and prevent heart attacks. Incorporating these foods into your diet could help improve your heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
However, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle to keep your heart healthy.