We all know that exercise is crucial for men’s heart health, but fitness is only part of the equation. If you’re not eating well, you’re missing out on some necessary nutrients your body needs to keep your heart healthy. Add the following foods to your diet to not only help your heart but also your overall health.
1. Broccoli: Mom had a good reason for telling us to eat our vegetables. Loaded with antioxidants and other important nutrients, broccoli is a powerhouse food that complements any diet. The omega-3 fatty acids found in broccoli may help reduce the risk of heart disease and may help keep your ticker in tip-top shape. For more on why omega-3s are so beneficial, check out “The Important of Omega 3 Fish Oil Fatty Acids.”
2. Avocado: A key ingredient in many Mexican dishes, this fruit is known for its high fat content. Although avocado is a fatty food, it contains mainly good fats like polyunsaturated and monosaturated fats; these fats have been linked to improved cardiovascular health and a reduction in cholesterol levels. Avocadoes also contain a number of antioxidants like vitamin E and C that may help fight off aging signs like undereye bags and wrinkles.
3. Oatmeal: This breakfast behemoth’s heart benefits are due to its high fiber content. In addition to potentially lowering cholesterol and potentially boosting heart health, fiber also helps keep you full longer so you end up consuming less calories and regulates bowel function. In other words, it does a lot – which is why you should be getting more of it. Whole grains are great sources of fiber, as are fruits and veggies so start stocking up.
4. Berries: Blueberries…raspberries…strawberries…the list goes on. Whichever berry you choose, you can be sure you’re getting a big dose of heart-healthy antioxidants. The phytonutrients (plant-based compounds) found in berries may help lower blood pressure and increase good cholesterol levels. Put them on your cereal, in your yogurt or eat them alone – they’re versatile fruit.
5. Salmon: While all fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, their content is usually too low to be meaningful; one of the most abundant sources of these healthy fats is salmon. Aside from helping your heart, omega 3s have been linked to better joint health; its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce arthritis risk. Salmon is also packed with protein, a necessary nutrient for tissue and muscle repair. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better source of healthy fats and protein. An excellent alternative to salmon is a high-concentration Omega 3 fish oil pharmaceutical-grade supplement.
6. Beans: Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. Beans are a prime example of a superfood that fits in the tightest of budgets. An economical source of nutrients, beans provide an ideal dose of complex carbs, heart-healthy fiber, muscle-building protein and important antioxidants. Add them to your soup or salad for more flavor.
7. Green Tea: We can’t stress enough the importance of green tea in your diet. Although known mainly for its high antioxidant content, green tea also helps support weight-loss processes. Green tea can help you burn more calories by kick-starting your metabolism. Read “The Benefits of Green Tea for Men” for more info on this superfood.
8. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is reported to be great for your heart – in moderation. Dark chocolate has flavonols, which gives it its pungent taste. These flavonols have antioxidant properties that have been studied for potentially lessening the risk of plaque formation in your arteries; they also may help lower cholesterol. The one downside to chocolate is that it’s high in calories and sugars, so make sure you limit your intake to avoid unwanted weight gain.
