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February is American Heart Month. Of course, It’s a good idea to eat a nutrient-dense diet year-round, but this month, Fox News Digital is highlighting some foods that are especially a boon for your cardiovascular health. Read on, and be sure to load up on these nutrition stars pronto.
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Dark Leafy Greens
It’s time to load up on spinach, kale, collard greens and other dark, leafy greens. This recommendation comes from Isa Kujawski, MPH, RDN, founder of Mea Nutrition LLC, who after serving over 10 years active duty in the Navy and losing her veteran brother to suicide, dedicated her career to helping people use food as medicine.
“Dark leafy greens are a powerhouse of beneficial nutrients, including fiber, micronutrients and bioactive plant compounds known as phytochemicals,” says Kujawski, citing a 2018 scientific review paper published in Nutrients.
THESE ARE THE WORST FOODS FOR YOUR HEALTH, EXPERTS SAY
“These nutrients presumably protect against cardiovascular disease by various mechanisms, including altering gene expression, regulating blood pressure, and lowering inflammation in the body,” she says. “Myriad studies have demonstrated the association between intake of dark leafy greens and lower risk of cardiovascular disease.”
For more on dark leafy greens and their health benefits, check out: Dark leafy greens: An essential superfood.
Olive Oil
Erin Kenney, MS, RD, LDN, HCP, CPT, registered dietitian and CEO of Nutrition Rewired is all about incorporating olive oil to your diet to keep your ticker happy.
“Olive oil consumption, specifically the extra-virgin, is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and mortality in individuals at high cardiovascular risk,” she says.
“Olive oil is rich in healthful antioxidants, polyphenols and vitamins, and is a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats,” she continues, adding that to get the most benefits from olive oil, avoid heating the oil…
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Source : foxnews
