In recent years, research has confirmed its potent medicinal properties and found that garlic can even help improve heart health. Beans contain resistant starch, which resists digestion and is fermented by the beneficial bacteria in your gut (32). Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly important for your body and brain. Research shows that incorporating a few servings of walnuts in your diet can help protect against heart disease. Additionally, each 3.5-ounce (100-gram) decrease in weekly fish consumption was associated with a 19% higher likelihood of having one additional risk factor for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or obesity (22). Another large study also showed that a higher intake of olive oil was associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure (64). The best-known herb for the heart in western herbalism is hawthorn, which is a small tree or shrub that grows throughout the northern hemisphere. Another small study had similar findings, reporting that eating almonds for four weeks resulted in significant decreases in both LDL and total cholesterol (49). According to one review, eating walnuts can reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol by up to 16%, lower diastolic blood pressure by 2–3 mm Hg and decrease oxidative stress and inflammation (28). One study in people with high blood pressure showed that eating 30 grams of flax seeds every day for half a year decreased systolic blood pressure by an average of 10 mmHg and reduced diastolic blood pressure by 7 mmHg (53). It has small white flowers with rose-like petals and bright red berries containing one or two large seeds. Its success can be achieved if the tincture of the fresh ripe fruit in a suitable dose (3X daily 10-20 drops after meals) is prescribed. The extract can be taken long-term, is very safe, and will not interfere with any medications, according to the official European Community monograph (ESCOP) on hawthorn. Initially, hawthorn berries were the only part of the plant used in making extracts but eventually the flowers and leaves were added, as they were shown to have significant concentrations of the active flavonoids as well. Another study found that eating chocolate at least twice per week was associated with a 32% lower risk of having calcified plaque in the arteries (40). In Europe, thousands of doctors prescribe hawthorn to prevent cardiovascular disease or to help alleviate symptoms of mild to moderate problems. Over time, the heart muscle can become weakened and/or damaged, resulting in heart failure. Learn more. In particular, they’re a great source of vitamin K, which helps protect your arteries and promote proper blood clotting (2, 3). Compared to refined grains, whole grains are higher in fiber, which may help reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease (7, 8, 9). Red wine, in moderation, has long been thought of as heart healthy. In one study of 17 people, eating bread made with flaxseed was shown to reduce total cholesterol by 7% and “bad” LDL cholesterol by 9% (54). Take advantage of the many benefits of olive oil by drizzling it over cooked dishes or adding it to vinaigrettes and sauces. Another analysis showed that 50 grams of soy protein per day decreased LDL cholesterol by an average of 3% (66). The Mediterranean diet. Taking a green tea supplement or drinking matcha, a beverage that is similar to green tea but made with the whole tea leaf, may also benefit heart health. A staple in the Mediterranean diet, the heart-healthy benefits of olive oil are well documented. By Mayo Clinic Staff. Here are 13 science-based benefits of taking fish oil. An ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is the most serious form of heart attack … Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, a natural plant pigment with powerful antioxidant properties (41). Be sure to pick a high-quality dark chocolate, 6 Science-Based Health Benefits of Krill Oil. Gerard (1633), one of the best-known of the Renaissance herbalists, called hawthorn oxyacanthus, white thorne, or hawthorn tree. Walnuts are a great source of fiber and micronutrients like magnesium, copper and manganese (27). Although more research is needed about the effects of chia seeds on heart health in humans, one study in rats found that eating chia seeds lowered blood triglyceride levels and boosted levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol (55). Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale and collard greens are well-known for their wealth of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Hawthorn had entered American clinical practice by 1896—only to fade from use in the 1930s. An offbeat romantic comedy about a woman who doesn't believe true love exists, and the young man who falls for her. The current use of hawthorn for heart conditions dates back to the 17th century, according to the French doctor, Leclerc. Getting at least 4.7 grams of potassium per day can decrease blood pressure by an average of 8.0/4.1 mmHg, which is associated with a 15% lower risk of stroke (20). The latter three genera are closely allied and until the 17th century were likely to be poorly distinguished from Crataegus (Parkinson). If combined with other changes to diet and lifestyle, even slightly reducing your cholesterol levels can have a big impact on your risk of heart disease. Most people with heart failure are treated with medication. Multiple studies have also found that eating beans can reduce certain risk factors for heart disease. Find practical answers and sound guidance in our free resources. One analysis of 45 studies concluded that eating three more servings of whole grains daily was associated with a 22% lower risk of heart disease (10). Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. What’s more, eating beans has been linked to reduced blood pressure and inflammation, both of which are risk factors for heart disease (38). It is rich in omega-3 fats that are very important for your body and brain. Research also shows that eating almonds is associated with higher levels of HDL cholesterol, which can help reduce plaque buildup and keep your arteries clear (50, 51). They’re also a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, two important nutrients that can help protect against heart disease (47). Common types of whole grains include whole wheat, brown rice, oats, rye, barley, buckwheat and quinoa. Over the centuries legends about hawthorn have abounded in England and Europe. It is made up of multiple layers of tissue. In Europe, both homeopathic and allopathic doctors used the herb for various heart and cardiovascular ailments from the late 19th through the early 20th centuries—and with great clinical success. Mushroom Medicine: Challenges and Potential, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Clinical Review, Echinacea: From Native American Pancea to Modern Phytopharmaceutical, Echinacea and Goldenseal: The Dynamic Duo. Remember that while almonds are very high in nutrients, they’re also high in calories. One analysis of eight studies found that increasing leafy green vegetable intake was associated with up to a 16% lower incidence of heart disease (5). Chia seeds, flaxseeds and hemp seeds are all great sources of heart-healthy nutrients, including fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Heart disease accounts for nearly one-third of all deaths worldwide (1). I have a special affection for this herb, because it helped my father strengthen his heart and significantly increase the quality of his circulation. 7 talking about this. According to some animal studies, resistant starch can improve heart health by decreasing blood levels of triglycerides and cholesterol (33, 34, 35). Genesis 6:5 And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.. Genesis 8:21 When purchasing whole grains, make sure to read the ingredients label carefully. Numerous studies have found that adding these types of seeds to your diet can improve many heart disease risk factors, including inflammation, blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides. The Mediterranean diet is based on the traditional eating patterns of people … Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help boost heart health. It acts as a powerful free-radical scavenger, protecting the heart against the harmful effects of lessened oxygen—a common result of vascular disease, such as atherosclerosis. Low blood levels of lycopene are linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke (42, 43).