Foods that Can Save Your Heart - Slideshow

Red Wine

Do you enjoy a glass of wine with your meal? If so, here's the good news! Red wine and heart health go hand in hand, if taken in moderation.

Red wine contains antioxidants such as resveratrol and catechines that protect the heart and boost good cholesterol (HDL) production.Patients taking medications, such as aspirin, need to consult their doctors.

Fish

Fish such as sardines, mackerel, herring, trout and anchovies contain plenty of omega- 3 fatty acids which control rhythm disorders, lower triglycerides and reduce inflammation.

A migratory fish inhabiting the Atlantic waters, salmon, is another source of abundant omega 3, EPA and DHA.

Nuts

Did you know that nuts could improve your heart health? Just a handful of walnuts and almonds can help to lower bad cholesterol and control inflammation in the heart tissues.

Tofu

Tofu, a soy product, contains minerals, fiber and poly unsaturated fat that can do wonders to improve your heart function. It is best to marinate tofu and to grill it well before consuming it.Tofu may also be stir-fried or added to curries.

Extra- virgin olive oil

The oil that first comes out when olives are pressed is known as extra-virgin olive oil. It contains phenols and mono saturated fatty acid that can protect arteries. This oil can be used generally for cooking or it can be added to salads, or taken with bread. Olive oil can effectively replace butter.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes have low glycemic index and contain lycopene and vitamin A along with fiber. All this adds to its overall goodness making it a wonderful alternative to white potato.

Oranges

This common citrus fruit is a known anti-ageing marvel but not many know that it is also a storehouse of pectin, potassium and an anti-oxidant, hesperidin, that collectively control cholesterol and blood pressure and does wonders for heart health.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal has always been held in high esteem as ideal breakfast since it contains soluble fibers known to lower cholesterol.

Oats may be consumed as a meal along with fruits and nuts or, it may be added to flour. It can even be used instead of bread crumbs.

Black beans

Black beans are packed with heart- healthy nutrients such as folate, magnesium, oxidants and fiber that lower cholesterol and sugar levels and help to maintain heart- health

Flaxseed

Flaxseed contains fiber, phytochemicals known as lignans, and ALA, which is a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. The body converts ALA to the more powerful omega-3s, EPA and DHA. Vegetarians must take care to include flaxseed in their diet to ensure a healthy heart.

Blue berries

Blue berries get their deep blue color from anthocyanins which are good for the heart. Blueberries also contain ellagic acid, beta-carotene, lutein, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, potassium, and fiber.

Blueberries may be consumed fresh or in the dried form.