Heart health is not to be taken lightly. Indeed, according to Public Health France, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death for women and the second for men. While most of these conditions are linked to so-called modifiable factors such as smoking, diabetes, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle or high blood pressure, diet also plays an important role. A healthy diet can help prevent the development of significant heart disease. This is what cardiologist Géraldine Vedrenne regularly explains on her Instagram account. In a recent publication, she shares the 4 seasonal fruits and vegetables to eat to protect your heart while treating yourself to delicious meals.
What fruits and vegetables should you eat in winter to maintain good heart health?
If you are lacking ideas for meals that are perfect for the season and for your heart health, Géraldine Vedrenne lists the 4 foods to adopt.
Squash
According to the expert, squash is an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C, ideal for heart health and the immune system. This fruit (yes it’s a fruit!) can be cooked into butternut squash soup, perfect for the fall season.
Apple
Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which may help reduce cholesterol and the risk of cardiovascular disease. The doctor recommends preparing them in the form of cinnamon roasted apples, delicious and comforting.
Nuts
Walnuts are great for heart health because they are high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and fiber. They can go perfectly in a salad with pears, according to the expert.
Black beans
Finally, according to Géraldine Vedrenne, black beans are rich in fiber, protein and potassium. They can support healthy blood pressure. The expert recommends cooking them in a vegetarian chili, perfect for black beans.
If these 4 fruits and vegetables are good for the heart during this fall season, there are also many other recommended foods to protect your heart health. Furthermore, to further reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases, we must not forget to accompany a balanced diet with a regular physical activity.
Read also :
⋙ Cardiovascular diseases: increased consumption of this type of food would reduce the risks
⋙ Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes: high consumption of this type of food would increase the risks
⋙ Cardiovascular diseases: these risky periods in women are still too little known