Maintaining heart health is crucial, and one of the things you can do about it is to follow a balanced diet. However, deciding what to avoid and what should be included in a healthy diet for the heart can be challenging.
Some specific foods and drinks can raise the chance of developing heart disease and should be avoided. Refined carbohydrates can raise the levels of “bad cholesterol” in the body, thus raising the risk of heart disease. The intake of processed foods and red meats should also be limited since they are high in saturated fat and may raise cholesterol levels. Overeating salt is another bad habit that often leads to high blood pressure, which can put more strain on the heart. Instead, try to use herbs and spices to flavor food.
Maintaining a heart-healthy diet requires including foods rich in “good” fats like mono and polyunsaturated fats. These can be found in cold-pressed vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and avocados. Eating plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole grains can also support cholesterol level reduction and heart disease prevention. Limiting your intake of sugary and processed foods and drinks is also essential, as these may contribute to weight gain, which raises the risk of heart disease.
Alcohol should also be limited, as drinking too much can raise blood pressure and bring about other long-term health issues. If you do choose to drink alcohol, it should be in moderation. A conversation with a vascular Dr near me can be beneficial in managing your overall vascular health as well.