Having a healthy heart is the key to living a long, healthy life. Some foods promote heart health, while others promote heart disease. Learn the right foods to eat to maintain a healthy heart for years to come.
Types
Saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol increase the risk for heart disease, while foods like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and lean protein can reduce the risk.
Size
The Mayo Clinic suggests eating the suggested serving size of each food consumed. A serving of meat is about the size of a deck of cards, while a serving of pasta is 1/2 cup.
Prevention/Solution
Eating foods with good cholesterol can lower bad cholesterol, which reduces the risk for heart disease. Foods with good cholesterol include nuts, fish with omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil and oatmeal.
Considerations
Even foods that reduce the risk of heart disease, including nuts and olive oil, can be high in saturated fat and should be eaten in moderation.
Benefits
Eating heart healthy foods will not only prevent heart disease, it will also aid in weight loss and living a healthier overall lifestyle.
