Cardiovascular diseases are prevalent in our country. Statistics suggest that one in every five fatalities is associated with heart problems. Therefore, it is essential to adopt an active lifestyle and follow a meal plan that improves heart health. The foods listed below taste great by themselves, and you can also mix them with other ingredients to make them more palatable. But seek a nutritionist’s guidance to avoid the aggravation of underlying health conditions. Oatmeal Most people consider oatmeal a breakfast food, but it is more than just that. Oatmeal can be had any time of the day, especially in the form of granola bars, whenever hunger pangs are bothering. It is rich in soluble fiber, which causes the liver to produce more bile. Bile, in turn, helps lower LDL cholesterol. So a bowl of oatmeal mixed with your favorite foods can be a great step toward a healthy heart. Black bean salsa When the cravings are for something delicious yet healthy, have some black bean salsa. It is packed with soluble fiber that brings down bad cholesterol levels to a healthy range. Add some veggies, corn, and mango for a splash of color and to get all the essential nutrients and vitamins.

Breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day. It kickstarts the body’s metabolism, supplies essential nutrients for organs, and provides energy for the tasks ahead. Individuals with cardiovascular health conditions are especially advised to be mindful of what they eat for breakfast and pick nutritious foods. This comprehensive guide explores a few heart-healthy breakfast ideas one can consider. It also explains the benefits of each recipe to help make informed choices. Oatmeal with berries Oatmeal is a heart-healthy breakfast superstar that is easy to prepare and digest. It is rich in fiber, which helps manage cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, lowering heart disease risk. Cook the oats with almond milk until creamy, add some fresh berries, and top it off with chia seeds. Oats contain beta-glucans, a soluble fiber that reduces LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol or “bad” cholesterol. Berries are loaded with rich antioxidants that actively combat oxidative stress and inflammation—risk factors linked to heart disease. Chia seeds additionally provide omega-3 fatty acids known to contain anti-inflammatory properties that support heart health. Avocado toast Avocado toast has gained popularity for good reasons. Avocado is a nutritious fruit with healthy fats that help lower bad cholesterol. This recipe needs the most basic ingredients, such as a couple of whole-grain bread slices, a fresh ripe avocado, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes to add some heat.

The human body requires cholesterol to process hormones, Vitamin D, and digestion. But letting it accumulate in the body can lead to clogged arteries and health issues like heart attack. High blood pressure, diabetes, chest pain, or experiencing pain while walking are signs that show one’s cholesterol levels are too high. One way to maintain healthy cholesterol levels is to eat nutrient-rich food. Here are some superfoods for maintaining a healthy cholesterol level. Types of cholesterol There are mainly two types of cholesterol; LDL and HDL. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is considered “bad” cholesterol since it clogs the blood vessels with plaque. The HDL (high-density lipoprotein), on the other hand, or the “good” cholesterol, helps carry and eliminate the LDL and regulate bodily functions. One way to ensure the bloodstream has lower levels of harmful LDL is to eat the right foods. Besides food, age can be another factor that can increase one’s cholesterol levels. With age, metabolism slows down, which can impact one’s processing of nutrients. Similarly, a family history of high blood cholesterol can also make one vulnerable to developing the condition. Superfoods to eat to lower cholesterol Oats Being one of the powerhouses of soluble fiber, oats are an excellent breakfast option for those with high cholesterol.