Almonds are a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, according to Kristian Morey, RD, a Clinical Dietitian at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.
Another powerful nut! Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, a potent antioxidant that may reduce inflammation and other risk factors for heart disease, Morey explains.
Asparagus boasts high amounts of vitamin K, which may play a role in regulating calcium in the body to promote bone and cardiovascular health, Morey says.
Millennials may get teased for their love of avocado toast, but when it comes to heart health, they’re on to something. Research shows that people who ate an avocado a day
These versatile legumes contain more protein than any other plant food—just one cup provides a quarter of what we need each day, Morey says.
Almost all fruit is good for you—cherries, strawberries, mangos, peaches—yum! But these blue-hued beauties work overtime to provide you with antioxidants and vitamin C, both potent stress busters, Morey explains.
Broccoli is packed with vitamins K and C, and is an antioxidant powerhouse, Morey says. Antioxidants sop up damaging free radicals that increase the risk for heart disease and other conditions.
Dark chocolate (at least 75 per cent cocoa; 85 per cent is best) can be heart-healthy, Morey says. Dark chocolate is rich in healthful flavonoids, particularly flavonols which can help lower risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).
Spinach and turnip tops provide iron plus lots of vitamin C, both good for strong bones, teeth, and hair, and vitamin A and magnesium, both of which are excellent at helping you maintain calm.
Surprised this is on the list after hearing admonitions from experts about avoiding the red stuff? Don’t be. Beef is loaded with zinc, iron, and B vitamins (not to mention protein), Morey says.