11 Foods You Should Eat For Better Heart Health and Reduce Your Risk of Afib

Your heart is one of the most important organs in your body. It works tirelessly to pump blood and keep you alive, so it’s essential to take care of it. One way to do this is by eating a heart-healthy diet. Research has shown that certain foods can improve heart health and reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation (Afib), a condition that causes an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Here are 11 foods you should incorporate into your diet to keep your heart healthy and reduce your risk of Afib.

Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and Afib. Omega-3s can lower triglycerides, decrease inflammation, and help regulate heart rhythm. Aim to eat fatty fish at least twice a week to reap the heart-healthy benefits.

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health. They are also rich in dietary nitrates, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health. Try to include a serving of leafy greens in your meals every day to support a healthy heart.

Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that are great for heart health. The compounds found in berries have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve cholesterol levels. Incorporating a variety of berries into your diet can provide a tasty way to support your heart.

Whole grains like quinoa, oatmeal, and brown rice are rich in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. They also contain important nutrients like magnesium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Replace refined grains with whole grains to enhance your heart health.

Avocados are a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. They are also rich in potassium, which is important for heart function and blood pressure regulation. Adding avocado to your diet can provide a flavorful way to promote heart health.

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are packed with nutrients that are beneficial for heart health. They contain healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants that can help lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and improve blood vessel function. Snacking on a handful of nuts or adding them to salads and oatmeal can be a heart-healthy choice.

Olive oil is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, which has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease and Afib. It is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. Using olive oil as the primary source of fat in cooking can be beneficial for heart health.

Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to heart health. Lycopene has been shown to help lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and improve blood vessel function. Whether fresh, sun-dried, or in sauce form, tomatoes can be a heart-healthy addition to your diet.

Moderate consumption of dark chocolate has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of blood clots. Choosing high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or higher can provide heart-healthy benefits.

Beans, including black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas, are a great source of fiber, protein, and important nutrients like potassium and magnesium. These nutrients can help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, and support overall heart health. Adding beans to soups, salads, and main dishes can contribute to a heart-healthy diet.

Green tea is rich in catechins, which are natural antioxidants that have been shown to improve heart health. Catechins can help reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of blood clots. Drinking a few cups of green tea per day can be a soothing way to support your heart.