Eating small meals often can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease by 10 to 20%, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal. Individuals who consume six small meals a day have an normal cholesterol level that is 5% lower than those who eat only one or two large meals. Snacking can also help keep metabolism in check and blood sugar levels stable, preventing the body from making more cholesterol. Choosing heart-healthy brown rice over white rice is another way to promote heart health. Brown rice contains an extract that can help fight the effects of angiotensin, a protein that can cause high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries, and is also a great source of fiber that can help you feel full and satisfied for a long time.
Acai berries from the Brazilian rain forest are a heart-healthy super food that can protect against the hardening of the arteries, lower high cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, all of which can lead to heart disease. A glass of red wine can also be beneficial for the heart as it contains the plant chemical resveratrol and procyandins, which are protective compounds. However, moderation is key, as excessive alcohol consumption can cause more harm than good. Conversely, sugary drinks in cans or bottles can increase the risk of heart disease by at least 20% and are linked to dangerous belly fat, which is also associated with heart disease.
Bananas are a potassium-packed fruit that can help keep blood pressure in check and lower the risk of high blood pressure and other heart problems. Eating at least eight portions of fruits and vegetables every day, as recommended by the British Heart Foundation, can also cut the chances of getting heart disease and other health problems. Finally, tangerines contain nobiletin, a flavonoid that can help prevent obesity and protect against atherosclerosis, a major risk factor for heart disease. Eating a healthy and varied diet, filled with these heart-healthy foods, is an excellent way to support heart health.
According to a study that came out in the British Medical Journal, consuming small meals often can help keep your cholesterol levels healthy. The research showed that individuals who consumed six smaller meals a day had minimum cholesterol level that was 5 percent lower than those who ate only one or two large meals. Also, these people had lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is the “bad” cholesterol that clogs arteries. This finding is important because lowering cholesterol levels by just 5 percent can cut the risk of heart disease by 10 to 20%. Having healthy snacks throughout the day can help keep your metabolism in check and keep your blood sugar levels from going up and down quickly, which can cause your body to make more cholesterol. So, snacking can be a healthy choice as long as you choose the right foods.
Source: Healthbenefitstimes
