Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Healthy food for your heart - Part 2


FISH :
Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that protect your heart by reducing both inflammation and the risk of blood clots. These fats also work to keep your cholesterol levels healthy. Eat salmon or other oily ocean fish like tuna, sardines or herring at least two times per week. For a heart-healthy meal, try grilled salmon steaks with a green vegetable and a side salad with a sprinkling of lemon juice instead of high-calorie salad dressing. Oily fish such as sardines are a really good source of omega 3s and sardines eaten with the dissolved bones are an incredible rich source of minerals.

BROCOOLI :
Broccoli and Broccoli Sprouts belongs to the crucifer family of vegetables, They contain a number of chemical compounds including carotenoids and indoles, which inhibit the production of cancer cells. Broccoli is very rich in vitamin C - weight for weight, it contains more than an orange. It contains antioxidant vitamin E and is a good source of calcium and B2. Because broccoli is a good plant source of iron, It contains sulphoraphane - which may help protect the heart from high blood pressure,heart disease, and stroke.

AVACODO :
One cup of avocado has 23% of the recommended daily value of folate. Studies show that people who eat diets rich in folate have a much lower incidence of heart disease than those who don't. The vitamin E, monounsaturated fats, and glutathione in avocado are also great for your heart.

GRAPES :
Eating grapes may not only please your palate; it may also improve your heart health. Grapes reduce cardiovascular risk by lowering blood pressure, improving heart function, reducing inflammation throughout the body and reducing signs of heart muscle damage.

BERRIES :
Eating a diet rich in berries may help to keep your heart healthy by lowering blood pressure and increasing levels of 'good' cholesterol.Eat your fill of fresh strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. Berries (fresh or frozen) are a highly concentrated source of polyphenols, disease-fighting antioxidants also found in red wine, grapes, chocolate, and nuts.


Concluded

Source: India Syndicate