Eat Right To Prevent A Heart Attack

Experts say that most cases of heart disease can be prevented by having a healthy diet. Follow these Do’s and Dont’s for a heart-healthy diet

DO…

Eat your VEGETABLES! It’s the cheapest, simplest way to protect your heart and yet fewer than 10 per cent of people do it. Eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure and reduce risk of heart disease and stroke. Also, the folate content of these foods help lower the blood levels of amino acid homocysteine, which appears to be linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

The higher the average daily intake of fruits and vegetables, the lower the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. All fruits and vegetables add to the benefits, but green vegetables like lettuce and spinach, and broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy as well as citrus fruits offer the most protection.

Watch your VITAMIN D levels. Having low levels of vitamin D has been linked to an increase in heart disease. In a study conducted with 114 participants in Singapore, approximately 42 per cent of them were vitamin D deficient. Hence it is wise to have your levels tested. Your doctor will recommend supplements if necessary, but safe sun exposure is the best way to maintain healthy levels. If you do suffer from low vitamin D levels, watch your weight. Being overweight is one of the main triggers, because fat cells absorb vitamin D and keep it from circulating throughout the bloodstream.

Get enough MAGNESIUM. A deficiency in this mineral can result in an abnormal heart rhythm. It is frequently prescribed in hospitals to treat arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), so protect your heart by eating more magnesium-rich foods including pumpkin seeds, spinach and almonds.

DON’T…