STRAIGHT TO THE HEART
October 09 2023 – Delikate Rayne
Veganism is a love letter signed, sealed, and delivered directly to your heart. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. More likely to happen to women than men keeping your heart supported is the most important thing you can do. Fueling yourself with a plant-based diet is the best place to start.
The prevailing offender of heart disease is red meat. High saturated fats and cholesterol are building blocks of clogged arteries. New studies on TMNO (trimethylamine-N-oxide), a byproduct of the process of your stomach acid breaking down red meat, is shown to increase the risk for heart disease when high levels are present in your bloodstream.
Cholesterol is another major factor in heart health. Cholesterol is a waxy substance naturally produced by the liver to produce stomach acid, vitamin D, and hormones. By consuming cholesterol rich foods such as dairy, eggs, and meat, you cause an overabundance of cholesterol in your body. Hypertension is the final nail in the coffin for heart disease. More than half of Americans suffer from trying to control their blood pressure. A plant-based diet is typically lower in saturated fats, lower in calories, and rich in fiber. All factors that contribute to having lower blood pressure.
These five foods are the best thing to keep in your diet to keep your heart healthy.
Oats
A powerhouse carbohydrate. Rich in nutrients, fiber, and antibiotics, this breakfast staple is the perfect grain to help keep cholesterol and blood pressure in check.
Legumes
Legumes are high in fiber, low in cholesterol, and packed with micronutrients. This classic vegan protein is probably already a part of your vegan diet, so good on you for staying ahead of your heart health.
Greens Veggies
Overflowing with vitamin C & E, potassium, and fiber. Choosing kale, bok choy, broccoli, and asparagus to snack on throughout your day makes it easy for your body to keep blood pressure in check.
Dark chocolate
Cocoa is packed with antioxidants, healthy proteins, and fiber. Plus, the higher the cocoa percentage, the lower the sugar.
Berries
These little cuties are the perfect healthy sweet fix. Rich with heart-healthy antioxidants and fiber, they’re the ideal mid-day snack.
Images: Tumblr
Words: Kelly Delany