For optimal heart health, the goal is to maintain normal blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose levels, and body weight which is why some follows a mostly plant-based diet.
A diet that’s rich in fresh plant foods can help lower your sodium intake to less than about two grams daily. Plant foods also help optimize your cholesterol levels to reduce your risk of heart disease, she adds.
Another benefit of plants: They’re high in fiber, which has loads of health benefits for your heart and body. Insoluble fiber (found in foods like vegetables and whole grains) helps control appetite and weight; lowers your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancer; and prevents constipation. Soluble fiber (found in oats, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, and peas) may help lower total cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation.
On the flip side, fried food (which is high in saturated and trans fats), processed meats, and foods with lots of added sugar (like soda) substantially increase the risk of stroke and heart disease when consumed regularly.
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