The way to cardiovascular wellness starts from a healthy stomach,and the Indian kitchen is a treasure trove packed with an abundance of incredible foods and herbs. Our traditions and customs are centred around food for a good reason: health starts with nourishing foods. However, it’s essential to recognize that diseases can also originate from dietary habits.
Therefore, we’ve chosen 10 easily accessible superfoods to incorporate into your daily diet for cardiovascular wellness :
- Pulses and Legumes:A staple in Indian kitchens, lentils, beans, and chickpeas are powerhouses of fibre, protein, and essential nutrients. They help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease. Enjoy them in dals, salads, soups, or even as healthy snack options.
- Turmeric:This golden spice holds immense medicinal properties. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can benefit heart health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the arteries. Include turmeric in curries, stir-fries, or even golden milk for a warm and comforting beverage.
- Olive Oil:While not traditionally Indian, olive oil has gained popularity for its health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats, olive oil can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve good cholesterol (HDL) levels, contributing to a healthy heart. Use olive oil for cooking, salad dressings, or drizzled over vegetables.
- Flaxseeds:These tiny seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation. Grind flaxseeds and sprinkle them on salads, yogurt, or oatmeal, or enjoy them as a healthy snack.
- Garlic:This pungent yet versatile ingredient is not just a flavour enhancer but also a cardiovascular wellnesshero. Garlic helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow, thanks to its sulphur-containing compounds. Enjoy garlic in curries, stir-fries, or even raw for a potent health boost.
- Fenugreek:This herb, commonly used in dals and curries, is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Studies suggest fenugreek may help lower bad cholesterol and blood sugar levels, contributing to overall heart health.
- Almonds:These readily available nuts are a powerhouse of vitamin E, healthy fats, and fibre. Almonds can help lower bad cholesterol and improve blood vessel function, promoting a healthy heart. Enjoy them as a snack, sprinkle them on salads, or incorporate them into desserts.
- Papaya: This tropical delight is packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fibre. Papaya can help lower inflammation, improve blood pressure, and promote overall heart health. Enjoy it fresh, in smoothies, or incorporated into salads and yoghourt parfaits.
- Dark Chocolate:Indulge guilt-free with dark chocolate containing at least 70% cocoa. Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, antioxidants that can improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, benefiting heart health.
- Yogurt:This probiotic-rich food is not just delicious but also heart-friendly. Yogurt helps lower bad cholesterol and improve blood pressure, promoting overall cardiovascular health. Choose plain yogurt and add fresh fruits, nuts, or honey for a delightful and nutritious snack.
Remember, a healthy heart requires holistic heart care. While incorporating these superfoods into your diet is valuable, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced and active lifestyle for optimal cardiovascular wellness.
It’s always wise to take precautions rather than seeking a cure.
Trust HeartTarang Portable ECG Device for cardiovascular wellness monitoring and Stay tuned to HeartTarang blogs for more heart-healthy tips.