What to Eat for a Healthy Heart

There’s no better time than now to learn more about heart-disease prevention. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the world— but steps can be taken to reverse this dangerous trend, starting with eating heart-healthy foods, exercising, and partnering with your doctor for early detection.

The good news is that due to recent advances in understanding, detecting, and treating heart disease, the great majority of heart attacks and strokes can be prevented. One of the most important things you can do to prevent heart disease is to practice heart-healthy eating. Enjoy eating a wide range of nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods to help in reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Basic guidelines for heart-healthy eating:

* Eat good carbohydrates. Good carbs include high-fiber, nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

* Eat good fats. Choose good fats from extra-virgin olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, flaxseed oil, walnut oil, avocados, nuts, and fish. Omega-3 (fish oil) supplements are also fine.

* Eat lean protein. The best sources include skinless white-meat poultry, fish and shellfish, lean cuts of meat, and soy-based options such as tofu, as well as legumes, eggs, low-fat dairy foods, nuts, and seeds.

If you follow these guidelines, you can put together delicious, satisfying, and healthy meals and snacks — and take the first step toward a healthier life.