The heart is a vital organ for the functioning of our body , since it is the main muscular organ of the circulatory system, allowing the entry and exit of blood from it, circulating blood throughout our body, collecting oxygen as it passes through the lungs and circulating to the heart, to be propelled everywhere, oxygenating our body.
Food and a balanced diet is of great importance to prevent heart disease and improve derived conditions, such as hypertension or arrhythmias among other cardiological conditions.
What does the heart need for its proper functioning?
- A healthy diet is vital for the proper functioning of the heart , and especially for the proper functioning of our heart, so we must be careful when eating carbohydrates, as they contain fats that saturate and clog the arteries that allow blood to enter and exit from the heart.
- Exercise plays an important role in our overall health , but it is essential for the proper functioning of our heart. Studies show that we should do aerobic exercise (such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling) at least three times a week for 30 minutes.
- The intake and consumption of alcohol can also affect the functioning of our heart , but depending on the amount, it can be in a positive or negative way. Medical studies show that daily consumption of a moderate amount of alcohol protects against cardiovascular disease and heart attacks, but overindulging in alcohol can lead to heart problems such as high blood pressure, strokes, and cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle). Also, a typical drink has between 100 and 200 calories. The calories in alcohol often add to body fat , which in turn can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Avoiding stress and excess tension in our body and mind is essential for the proper functioning of the heart . People with cardiovascular disease often report heart pain during emotionally stressful situations. You are also more likely to have a heart attack during times of stress, because your heart races and blood pressure rises.
What foods help the heart function properly?
Some of the foods indicated to maintain the health of this important organism for the correct functioning of the entire organism.
1.The living room
Salmon and chia, flax or linseed seeds are high in omega 3 . The consumption of these foods prevents inflammation of the blood vessels and the risk of clots by helping to reduce triglycerides in the blood. To this must be added its high fiber content that helps us reduce bad cholesterol levels, so they not only help us protect the heart, but also improve the current situation of the circulatory system.
2. Beans
Grains, also called beans, are packed with heart-good nutrients such as : B complex, folate, magnesium, and fiber. These help regulate cholesterol and glucose in the blood.
3. Nuts
Nuts such as walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds, are loaded with sterols, these help reduce “bad” cholesterol, or LDL . They are rich in magnesium, which prevents hardening of the arteries and increases blood pressure; achieving in turn reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Olive oil
Olive oil, which is the oil that is extracted from the first pressing of olives, is rich in polyphenols, an antioxidant that helps protect blood vessels, reduces “bad” cholesterol or LDL and blood pressure.
5. Red fruits
Red fruits, or fruits of the forest such as raspberries, blackberries and strawberries, contain the necessary nutrients for a healthy heart : vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps prevent heart disease, magnesium and potassium that regulate blood pressure, fiber that prevents inflammation and folate, which reduces the risk of heart attacks.
6. Cocoa
Pure or dark chocolate that contains more than 70% cocoa is a good ally of the heart , and it contains resveratrol and cocoa phenols that protect cells against damage, thus helping to maintain proper health in our circulatory system; and he is also extremely rich.
It is important to remember that in addition to feeding the heart with a good diet, it is appropriate to avoid smoking , reduce stress and exercise regularly for a healthy functioning of our heart and the rest of the body.