The thing with cliches is, well, they become so overused that we don’t really pay much attention to them, which is why the phrase “you are what you eat” never really gets the undivided attention it deserves.
But it should.
It really, really should.
And that’s because the contents of your kitchen can save your life. That’s not us just being melodramatic either. That’s scientists using their research to prove that what you eat and drink can protect your body from the immense amount of health issues and woes out there. In fact, over 75% of heart disease cases could be prevented simply by eating the right foods.
Knowing this, we spoke to a culinary nutritionist and asked them what foods are the best for keeping your heart healthy and what edible tidbits you need to stock in your cupboards and fridge in order to make your kitchen a hub of healthiness. So, without further ado, here are the good foods for you to slip into your diet at every possible occasion:
Walnuts
If your reaction to hunger is to reach for a chocolate bar or some other unhealthy snack, then you need to swap your weakness for walnuts; a nut that is rich with everything from omega-3 fatty acids to fiber, Vitamin E to folate, all of which is super good for your ticker. Of course, don’t just walk down the aisle of your local grocery store and throw any old pack into your trolley because most will be of the salted variety. Instead, find a pack that specifically says unsalted.
Blueberries
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious superfood that will help you live for a whole lot longer than ever expected then, pow, you need to start chomping on blueberries. We won’t go into the science of it all, but these little bundles of scrumptiousness are known to prevent coronary disease. Snack on them, add them to your oatmeal, pop them in a smoothie, into your yoghurt or just bathe in them if you so fancy; so long as they get enjoyed, you’ll be fine.
Sardines
These (once) swimmy little sea creatures may be smallish, but they are absolutely packed full of fish oils (read: Omega 3s), which means they give your cholesterol levels that much-needed boost. The result: it reduces the chance of sudden heart attack, even in people who have suffered a heart attack in the past. Of course, you need to pick a bunch of fresh ones if you want them to work because canned ones are basically fish-flavoured salt.
Liver
People hear the word ‘liver’ and they squirm a little because, urgh, it’s an organ. However, you need to snap out of this zone and embrace the deliciousness that is pan-fried liver not least because it contains fats that are super good for your heart. Of course, they may be an adjustment period required when adding this to your diet, so the best thing you can do is look for delicious sounding recipes, such as a steak and liver pie or caramelized onions, liver and mash.
