Eating for Your Heart Can Actually Be Delicious

Without a healthy heart, your body can’t get very far. Despite knowing that, you may still find that double cheeseburger or plate of onion rings too delicious to pass up. If you have continually groaned at your doctor’s recommendation to add heart healthy food into your diet, now is the time to change your attitude. The type of food that you put into your body can transform your health for better or for worse. But there’s good news: it really is possible to spoil your heart with healthy foods and enjoy what you eat. Check out these options to see what you’ve been missing!

Salmon

Not a fish eater? It’s still possible to have a love affair with salmon. Cook it in the oven or over the grill with a low sodium soy sauce and honey marinade, and you won’t even know you’re eating seafood at all. The omega 3 fatty acids found in salmon offer a jackpot of health benefits for the entire body, especially the heart. In fact, studies show that regular salmon eaters have lower risks of irregular heartbeat and atherosclerosis. If you really can’t get on board with salmon, take an omega 3 supplement instead to enjoy the same benefits.

Blueberries

If you love fruit, adding a handful of blueberries to your yogurt or cereal each day won’t be such a stress. Strawberries, raspberries, and any other type of berries are just as helpful because their antioxidants can decrease blood pressure and help dilate blood vessels to improve circulation. Try going berry picking to help the food feel more real and valuable to you. If you really don’t enjoy eating berries, whip them up in a smoothie with a banana, some milk, and whatever other ingredients will make the smoothie appealing to you (peanut butter, flaxseed, perhaps some protein powder?). Your body will thank you.

Nuts

It’s time to get nutty. Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, walnuts, and seeds like sunflower and chia can significantly strengthen your heart health thanks to their high omega 3 fatty acid and vitamin E content. You don’t have to eat nuts and seeds plain if that doesn’t appeal to you. Try making your own granola bars with nuts, seeds, oats, honey, and dark chocolate chips, or pack trail mix with your favorite nuts and dried fruit. The options are endless and, more importantly, delicious.