Yes, convenience trumps everything in today’s fast-paced world. Our daily schedules stacked with household errands, business meetings, and other personal commitments; leave us with very little time to enter the kitchen and cook a sumptuous and healthy meal. A quick bite of bagel, burger or just a Grande coffee seems to work just fine for most of us.
However, in this haste what we fail to realize is the ordeal that we unknowingly put our bodies, especially our heart through. While these quick relishes may do just fine to satiate your cravings and make you go through the day; they may not be all that good for your heart.
Did you know heart disease is the number one disease that affects Americans? In ringing with the old adage of ‘We are what we eat’, experts recommend a healthy diet loaded with heart-loving nutrients to keep the rising numbers of heart conditions at bay. Here are six natural foods you need to start eating today to take care of your pacemaker.
Yogurt
Yogurt: An overload of healthy probiotics, yogurt will protect more than just your heart. In addition to guarding you against heart attack, yogurt is rich in antioxidants and healthy bacteria that build up your immune system, improve digestion and stimulate overall health. Add some fresh berries or granola and you’ve made yourself a heart-healthy snack loaded with fiber and other essential nutrients. This creamy delight is also known to protect you from gum disease, which increases the risk of heart disease.
Collard Greens
Collard Greens: Blessed with natural anti-inflammatory compounds, vitamins A, K, C and other nutrients such as folate, magnesium and calcium; collard greens are a nutritional powerhouse of health. They not only protect your arteries from clogging, but also maintain your blood clotting apparatus. Low in calories, this green leafy vegetable is also found to lower cholesterol levels naturally.
Watermelon
Watermelon: A juicy and sweet slice of watermelon is all you need to keep your heart both happy and healthy. A great source of lycopene, antioxidants and fiber, watermelon not only keeps you hydrated but also protects you from various heart ailments. Other nutrients present in this succulent melon are vitamins C and A, as well as potassium and magnesium.
Quinoa
Quinoa: This healthy pseudo-grain, which mind you is actually a seed, is an excellent source of vegetable protein, which is rated higher and better for maintaining a healthy heart as opposed to animal protein. A gluten-free source loaded with twice as much as fiber as other grains, quinoa is also rich in monounsaturated fatty acids which are great for your heart.
Peas
Peas: These little pods of green are loaded with fiber which helps keep your arteries clean. They are a great weight loss food and play an essential role in cutting down the risk of heart ailments associated with increased weight.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes: Another fabulous source of lycopene and vitamin C, tomatoes are great for your heart. The antioxidant power of vitamin C aid in protecting the arteries and blood vessels from the damage of free radicals. The fiber present in tomatoes helps flush any plaque buildup and offers protection against atherosclerosis.
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