Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Antioxidant Rich Super Foods For Heart Health

By Dicky Rejaka

Antioxidants are nutrients - vitamins, minerals and enzymes, that help fight against oxidation caused by free radicals, the daily pollutants we encounter. Oxidation is a normal damaging process to the cells in our bodies be a catalyst for degenerative diseases such as cancer and heart disease if they're present in your body for too much time of a time. By consuming a proper diet of the antioxidant rich Super foods we can keep the free radicals in check and prevent heart damage.

Super foods are fresh unprocessed, brightly colored vegetables and fruits. The antioxidants in these foods can prevent and repair cell damage caused by the free radicals. Some transport oxygen and act as blood thinners which helps to prevent blood clots. And some are anti-inflammatory and help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Here are all very reputable Super foods for heart health.

Avocados although high in fat prevent cholesterol absorption.

Blueberries prevent blood clots, reduce artery inflammation and help lower cholesterol.

Broccoli, carrots and cauliflower prevent inflammation and lowers cholesterol.

Dark Chocolate, 60% or higher cocoa content can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.

Flax seed reduces triglyceride levels and lowers blood pressure.

Garlic in high doses may thin the blood, reducing clotting, and lowering cholesterol.

Green tea contains EGCG which can lower cholesterol and prevent damage to the heart muscle.

Nuts - walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts can lower cholesterol, pine nuts can protect against arrhythmia.

Oatmeal - whole grain not refined, can lower cholesterol.

Pomegranate juice can reduce the plaque in arteries and help reduce blood pressure.

Sweet Potatoes can lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

Heart disease is the main cause of death in the USA. Make sure to have regular health screenings and keep in mind your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers. Manage yourself and your health by not smoking, adding exercise and eating healthy, a diet full of the Super foods that will help you prevent heart disease. - 42574

About the Author:

No comments:

Post a Comment