What are the best foods to prevent heart disease?

Did you know that these six foods that if eaten regularly could cut the risk of heart disease 76%?

I’ve made a list below and outlined what it can do for you.

Garlic – A daily dose of garlic can reduce cholesterol levels and heart disease risk by 25%. One fresh clove does the trick but if you want to keep a good social life take the odourless pills from the health food store.

Fish – Four servings of fish a week can lower heart disease risk by an average of 14% says Tulane University researchers. Cold-water species such as salmon, tuna, and sardines are better as they are full of omega-3s and fatty acids that can lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and even the blood cell stickiness that contributes to clots. But don’t go overboard as more than four four-ounce servings a week can increase your blood mercury levels – not good.

Almonds – A handful of almonds a day reduces LDL-bad cholesterol-by nearly 5 percent, according to a University of Toronto study.

Fruits and vegetables – 400 gm could cut heart disease risk by nearly 1/4. They contain antioxidants that fight cellular damage that contributes to atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries. They also provide dietary fiber which can cut heart disease risk by 40% according to a Harvard study. Broccoli, berries, melons, carrots, and leafy greens are all rich in both antioxidants and fibre.

Dark chocolate can reduce blood pressure according to a study in San Francisco at UCLA. Flavonoids, which are chemical compounds found in chocolate, can decrease blood cell stickiness to promote blood flow. Remember though it just takes a square or two, not the whole bar.

Wine – Now here’s one for the party goers. I can see you guys clapping your hands right now! A glass of wine can lower your odds of heart disease by 1/3 as long as you aren’t sensitive to it. Many people are sensitive and don’t know it. Red wine is rich in polyphenols that prevent oxidation, a process that causes cholesterol to cling to artery walls. Remember though that too much wine is not good for the brain fog the next day and also if you have diarrhea after a night of drinking you need to get that sensitivity test to check it out.

Remember also that it is important to have a multi vitamin daily. Which one? Ask your natural therapist who will find the best for your needs. Also some antioxidants. Reason for this is that with all the pollution out there and the de-natured society we live in it is no longer possible to get all your nutrients from just your food. Going organic helps, eating right helps but if you want to be sure take a supplement.

The above is quite an interesting list though don’t you think? Rule of thumb is to be sensible and enjoy!