10 Heart Healthy Foods

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, and about 600,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year. That’s one in every four deaths. Coronary heart disease is the most common type of heart disease. It kills more than 385,000 people annually and costs the United States $108.9 billion each year. This total includes the cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity.

With these scary stats in mind, there’s no better way to end Heart Health Month than by stocking your cabinets with foods that love your heart in return. Try some familiar favorites like oats and dark chocolate or add some variety with chard and sardines. There’s plenty to choose from when it comes to heart-healthy foods. Here’s my top 10 best foods for your heart:

Heart Healthy Foods

Blackberries

Blackberries are nutrient powerhouses. One cup packs 8 grams of fiber and 30mg of vitamin C (or about 50 percent of the daily needs for the average person), all for only 60 calories a serving. Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott

Swiss Chard

Bored with spinach and kale? Swiss chard is a widely available leafy green that’s popular in Mediterranean recipes. In addition to being heart healthy, it’s high in vitamin A and a good source of vitamin C.Photo via Shutterstock

Photo via Shutterstock

Lentils

Lentils are high in soluble fiber and protein which makes them an excellent meat-free alternative. Try making a lentil soup or add to a salad to up the protein. Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott

Sardines

Sardines are an excellent source of heart-healthy fats. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, sardines have been linked to a lowered risk of developing blood clots and to reducing blood pressure.Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott

Brussels sprouts

Cruciferous vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, are an excellent source of fiber which can help lower cholesterol. Try roasting to bring out the natural flavor or finely shred and add to a slaw or salad.Photo via Shutterstock

Photo via Shutterstock

Oats

Oats are inexpensive and easy way to add to fiber your diet. High in soluble fiber, which is known to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, oats are the perfect addition to a heart healthy breakfast. Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott

Apples

Apples are high in soluble fiber and low in calories. Apples and other white fleshed fruit such as pears, have been associated with a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott

Whole Grain Bread

Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber. Choose minimally processed varieties with little to no added sugar and sodium.Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott

dark chocolate

Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that may be beneficial to heart health. Choosing minimally processed dark chocolate is the way to go. Moderation is key, of course. Photo via Shutterstock

Photo via Shutterstock

Wine

Research suggests that red wine has been linked to improved heart health by preventing blood clots and relaxing blood vessel walls. Stick to one glass per day with meals for the most benefit.Photo by Allison Knott

Photo by Allison Knott