Eating For A Healthy Heart

Bad cholesterol or a bad diet is something we all


experience at some point in time. It's impossible


to eat healthy our whole lives, even though we may


try hard to do it. Eating healthy for your heart


is something everyone should try to do, especially


when it comes to restoring health and reducing


heart attacks.




Your heart and food


We know these things for sure - a diet high in


saturated fats will help raise your cholesterol,


which is a risk factor for heart disease. People


that are obese are more prone to heart disease. A


diet high in sodium may elevate your blood pressure,


leading to inflammation and even heart disease.




To help prevent heart disease and improve your health,


put the tips below to good use.




Eat plenty of fish


Herring, sardines, and salmon are all excellent sources


of Omega 3 essential fatty acids. Other fish are great


to, although Omega 3 may help to get your cholesterol


down to a healthier level.




Choosing healthy fats and oils


Saturated fat will increase the risk of heart disease.


It's found in meat, butter, and even coconut oil. You


should avoid them until your cholesterol levels are


down and you are at a healthy weight. Even those


that love red meats can enjoy seafood and nuts for


their main sources of protein.




Monounsaturated fats such as olive oils will help


you to protect your heart. Olive oil is an ideal


choice for cooking, dressing, or even as a dipping


sauce.




Plenty of fiber


Fiber can help you control your cholesterol. You


can find fiber in whole grain products to help


control sugar absorption as well, which will help


you keep your digestive system healthy.




Choosing carbohydrates


Eating for your heart involves staying away from


sugary foods such as candy, cookies, cakes, and


pastries. Eating a lot of sugar isn't good for


your heart disease at all. Healthy carbohydrates


involve whole grain breads, whole grain pasta, brown


rice, and a lot of vegetables. You should make


fruits and vegetables the main aspect of your diet.




Healthy cooking methods


Stir frying and sauteing with olive oil or canola


oil are both great methods, as you shouldn't dip


your food in batter and fry it anymore. If you


cook chicken, remove the skin and bake it in the


oven in foil.




Instead of frying your fish you should always bake


it. Steaming your vegetables can help maintain the


most nutrients. You should use cream sauces or lots


of butter anymore either. When you eat vegetables,


try squeezing lemon juice on them or using your


favorite seasonings.




As you make the proper changes to your diet, keep in


mind that it takes time for them to become habits.


Eating healthy is always great for your body and your


lifestyle, especially when it comes to your heart and


the prevention of heart disease.