7 Amazing Foods for a Healthier Heart

Photo credit: Bigstockphoto
Photo credit: Bigstockphoto

2. Nuts

Nuts, especially walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, are an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that aid in cardiovascular health, including moderate amounts of fiber. Studies have shown that people who eat nuts regularly suffer less from heart disease than those who don’t. Mixing nuts into salads and parfaits, or simply eating them as a snack, is a great way to reap the many benefits they offer.

When eating nuts for heart health, you will want to stay away from peanuts as they are often salty and coated with unhealthy fats. They also contain a large amount of unsaturated fatty acids known as omega-6. When there is an imbalance in the amount of omega-3 and omega-6, there is an increase for common diseases such as diabetes. If peanuts are eaten at all, they should be as raw and natural as possible with no salt added. For those who like peanut butter, there are some healthier nut butter alternatives such as almond, hazelnut, pecan and coconut. Another reason to be wary of peanuts is the number of people who suffer with peanut allergies. Some heart-healthy seeds such as sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds are good alternatives to peanuts and contain the same kind of monounsaturated fats as healthy nuts. Seeds also contain fiber, protein and essential minerals.

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