Cardiovascular or heart diseases mostly occur due to the blockage of blood vessels near the heart. These can also occur due to inflammation, high blood pressure, and increased levels of cholesterol. Making the right lifestyle choices, regularly exercising, and including the right foods to prevent heart diseases is advisable.

Here are a few foods that help prevent heart diseases.

Leafy green vegetables
Most doctors believe that eating the correct foods prevent heart diseases. And among the most recommended foods for a healthy heart are green leafy vegetables. Spinach and kale are the best to keep your heart healthy as they are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They promote proper blood clotting and regulate blood pressure.

Whole grains

Whole grains promote heart and overall health. Add whole grains such as oats, rye, barley, and quinoa that are rich in fiber to your diet in order to prevent heart diseases. These grains decrease bad cholesterol in your body, reducing the chances of cardiovascular diseases.

Berries

Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries play a vital role in promoting heart health. They are rich in antioxidants and protect the body against inflammation caused by stress. Also, blueberries help in blood clotting and regulating blood pressure.

Avocados

Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats are abundantly found in avocados. They reduce cholesterol levels, which in turn, prevents heart diseases. These fats are also rich in potassium, which is essential for the normal functioning of the heart.

Fish

Omega-3 fatty acids found abundantly in fish like mackerel, salmon, and tuna lower cholesterol levels, blood triglycerides, and systolic blood pressure. These fatty acids can also be found in fish oil.

Walnuts

Walnuts, when added regularly to your diet, can prevent heart diseases as they are rich in fiber and micronutrients.

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolates are rich in flavonoids and antioxidants. These help to keep your heart healthy.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, which has powerful antioxidant properties. It helps neutralize oxidative damage and inflammation caused by free radicals, helping the heart function better.

Olive oil

Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fatty acids. It is also full of antioxidants and can help decrease blood pressure and relieve inflammation.

Garlic

Garlic is an effective remedy for numerous ailments. Many research studies show that garlic also helps prevent heart diseases. Allicin, a component that is present abundantly in garlic, has excellent therapeutic effects.

Only eating the right foods to prevent heart diseases is not enough. Controlling your portion size is also essential. It’s advisable to limit unhealthy fats and sodium content in your diet. Moreover, remember that exercise is as important as consuming the right foods to prevent heart diseases.