Orlando, Florida – Maintaining a healthy heart is crucial for overall well-being. Cardiologists from various parts of the United States have shared their favorite fruits for boosting heart health. Fruits, along with vegetables, are packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants that can significantly reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease, the leading cause of death in the US.
Dr. Deepak Vivek, a cardiologist at Orlando Health in Florida, highlighted the cardiovascular benefits of fruits, such as lowering high blood pressure and reducing hardening of the arteries. He emphasized the importance of including 4½ cups of fruits in the daily diet, as recommended by the American Heart Association.
Apples are a favorite fruit for Dr. Vivek due to their rich source of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Additionally, apples have a low glycemic index, making them beneficial in reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Dr. Vivek enjoys incorporating apples into his salads or eating them as a wholesome snack, especially before engaging in physical activities like pickleball.
In Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Sushant Khaire, a cardiologist at Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, advocates for bananas as a heart-healthy snack. Bananas are known for their richness in dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. These nutrients play crucial roles in enhancing digestion, boosting the immune system, and supporting brain and nerve development.
Dr. Jennifer Mieres, a professor of cardiology at the Zucker School of Medicine in Hempstead, recommended fruits like apples, pears, and cherries as mid-afternoon snacks due to their fiber content, which helps in satiety and protects against heart disease. Fiber has been scientifically proven to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, significant risk factors for heart disease.
In Manhattan, Dr. Satjit Bhusri, a cardiologist at Upper East Side Cardiology, praised berries like blueberries, raspberries, acai berries, and goji berries for their high levels of antioxidants, which are crucial for heart protection. These berries are valuable additions to a heart-healthy diet.
Lastly, Dr. Joy Gelbman, a cardiologist at Weill Cornell Medicine, expressed her preference for berries as well, highlighting their antioxidant properties and fiber content. These fruits not only taste delicious but also play a vital role in promoting heart health.
Overall, incorporating a variety of fruits in the daily diet is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. The advice from these cardiologists emphasizes the importance of natural, nutrient-dense foods in promoting cardiovascular health.