The British Heart Foundation estimates that more than half of those living in the UK will develop a heart or circulatory condition in their lifetime – a startling prediction.
What’s worse, cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, are considered the world’s biggest killers.
Fortunately, Claudia Le Feuvre, Nutritionist from Goldster, has outlined five “best” foods to keep your heart healthy as you age.
She said: “Diet is key in preventing heart disease and heart attacks. If you are educated about your diet and how you can help your heart, ageing healthily becomes so much easier.
“Healthy eating and lowering cholesterol should be straightforward and relatively inexpensive with these accessible tips.”
1.Dark chocolate
Characterised by a rich yet delicious taste, dark chocolate is packed with flavonoids that may help reduce blood pressure and inflammation.
The nutritionist explained that both of these health problems can lay the harmful groundwork to heart disease.
“Look for levels of over 85 percent cocoa in your dark chocolate which will mean low sugar and low dairy content,” she added.
2.Oats
Packed with soluble fibre known as beta-glucans, oats are proven to lower high cholesterol levels, a major precursor to cardiovascular problems.
Le Feuvre said: “A good way of getting oats into your diet is to eat porridge for breakfast.
“You can use dairy or plant milk and add all kinds of lovely extras such as fresh fruit, flax seeds, spices and other nuts and seeds to make it even more delicious.”
3. Beans
Similarly to oats, beans are a great source of fibre which can help lower cholesterol levels.
The nutritionist explained that even the humble tin of baked beans counts as long as you opt for the ones which are reduced in sugar and salt.
4.Green vegetables
Boasting a potent antioxidant content, the likes of kale, broccoli and spinach are another great heart-healthy addition to your diet, according to the expert.
5.Nuts
The small foods offer more than a tasty crunch as they are brimming with healthy fats and vitamins.
Le Feuvre explained this nutritional content could increase your good cholesterol while lowering your bad one.
If you’re not a fan of nuts, she added that avocados and oily fish also offer these heart-healthy fats.
