9. Tomatoes
Did you know that tomatoes pack a plant pigment with antioxidants properties called lycopene? When consumed, lycopene helps neutralize harmful free radicals this way keeping both inflammation and oxidative damage at bay.
All of us should get enough amounts of lycopene. Low blood levels of it have been linked to an increased risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Numerous studies demonstrated that the higher the lycopene intake, the stronger the heart.
In fact, a recent study involving 60 overweight women found that consuming at least two fresh tomatoes five times a week could maximize levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. As a result, high levels of good cholesterol can help get rid of excess cholesterol, and plaque stuck on the arteries.
What more could you possibly want from a couple of tomatoes? You can even make juice from them!
10. Almonds
Being a nutritional powerhouse, just a handful of almonds can do wonders for your health. The minerals and vitamins packed in them play an important role in your heart health, so when you really have the urge to snack on something, think about almonds!
On top of all vitamins and minerals, almonds also contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that are known for guarding against heart disease. Research suggests that consuming almonds regularly can have a positive effect on cholesterol levels too.
A study involving 48 participants with high cholesterol found that consuming at least 1.5 ounces of almonds per day for about six weeks could reduce LDL cholesterol and belly fat, the number one enemies of heart disease.
You can also add to that the benefit of having high HDL cholesterol levels. However, measure your portions! Because almonds are also pretty high in calories, you may put on some weight.
