You are here
How to Eat for a Healthy Heart
-
Getty Images
Blueberries
Antioxidants in these berries help fight inflammation and lower bad LDL cholesterol, blood fats, and blood sugar.
-
Blaine Moats
Olive and Canola Oil
High in heart-smart monounsaturated fats; lower in saturated fat than other oils.
-
Chris Gallo
Cinnamon
Mix 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 teaspoons honey with 2 tablespoons peanut butter. Spread on sliced apples or pears.
-
Jupiter Images
Oatmeal
A great source of soluble fiber and full of heart-friendly B vitamins.
-
Chris Gallo
Peppermint
Puree 2 tablespoons fresh mint with 1/2 cup yogurt or ricotta cheese. Serve with berries.
-
Nuts
Packed with heart helpers, like omega-3 fatty acids, phytochemicals, potassium, and vitamin E.
-
Alamy
Salmon
Omega-3s help reduce triglycerides and bad cholesterol and make blood flow smoothly, lessening the chance of clotting.
-
Chris Gallo
Ginger
Toss 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger with 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce, and 1/2 cup 100 percent pineapple juice for a zesty marinade.
-
Chris Gallo
Crushed Red Pepper
Dust 1/8 teaspoon on hummus for a kick, or saute 1/4 teaspoon with 1/2 cup light coconut milk for a shrimp-and-broccoli stir-fry.
-
Stockfood
Red Wine and Grape Juice
Contain high levels of antioxidants that help protect the vascular system.
-
Chris Gallo
Sage
Dip a whole-grain roll in olive oil instead of butter, with a sprinkle of sage and black pepper.
-
Chris Gallo
Spinach
B vitamins and antioxidants fight heart disease; magnesium can help lower blood pressure.
-
Chris Gallo
Curry
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon on cooked cauliflower, or add to chicken salad.
-
Richard Jung
Flaxseeds
Rich in ALA, a fatty acid that may help regulate blood pressure, blood fat, and inflammation.
-
Comstock
Legumes
Soluble fiber lowers cholesterol and can help improve insulin resistance.
-
Alamy
Soy
Replace meat in your meal with soy-based foods, such as tofu, to help lower cholesterol.
Originally published in FITNESS magazine, November/December 2008.
-
Comments
Add a comment