Understanding Heart Disease

As we age, the risk of developing heart disease increases. However, that doesn’t mean that older adults can’t have a healthy heart! Along with proper exercise, adding more of these heart-healthy fruits and vegetables to your plate can help lower your risk.

Leafy Green Vegetables

Vitamin K helps to improve artery function as well as promote blood clotting. Adding these leafy green vegetables to your diet can help lower your risk of heart disease:

• Kale
• Spinach
• Collard greens
• Cabbage
• Romaine lettuce

Berries

Since berries are rich in antioxidants, it can prevent inflammation as well as lower “bad” LDL cholesterol, and blood pressure. Berries are a great low-calorie, sweet substitute for a sugary dessert. Try adding these berries to cereals and low-fat yogurts:

• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Blackberries
• Acai berries
• Cranberries
• Grapes

Avocados

Avocados are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Avocados are also rich in potassium, which can also improve heart health.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene. Lycopene is a natural and potent antioxidant. Not only do antioxidants help to keep harmful free radicals at bay, but it can also be good for your heart. Those who have a low blood level of lycopene are at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. 

The Arbors Assisted Living community encourages and supports heart-healthy habits for our senior residents. We provide a variety of nutritious meals as well as activities that help to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more!