Top Snacks for Heart Health
Learn more about eight top snacks that you can enjoy for heart health!
Your has doctor advised you to eat healthier to help manage your blood pressure or cholesterol levels. Or maybe you want to prevent your blood pressure from rising because you have seen what it has done to the people close to you. And while you know that eating heart healthy meals are important, what about those in between meal hunger sessions when you really need a snack? Below are some snacks suggestions that may help to improve your heart health.
Bananas
Bananas are high in potassium. Potassium is in nature and in our bodies. Some research has shown that eating more potassium than sodium may help to regulate blood pressure. This is why this snack option is ideal for heart health.
Nuts
Many nuts contain protein, unsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber. These heart healthy nutrients may help to lower LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein cholesterol – read more about it a past blog post) “bad” cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Low-Fat Yogurt
Full fat dairy products contain more saturated fat (“bad” fat) then low-fat dairy products such as low-fat yogurt. Dairy exist in many of the foods we regularly eat. By choosing low-fat snack options such as yogurt, it helps to lower the total amount of saturated consumed daily. Pair your low-fat yogurt with some yummy granola and fresh fruit for a more filling snack and delicious parfait!
Dark Chocolate
Studies show that when dark chocolate does not contain tons of sugar or saturated fat, it may help to lower the risk of heart disease. The Hu Kitchen Organic Hazelnut Coffee Dark Chocolates Bar contains 8g sugar and 7 g of saturated fat.
Apples
There is truth to the old cliche “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Apples are free from saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol. There also a super easy grab n’ go snack!
Red Grapes
By now, you have heard that wine is healthy for your heart. That’s because it contains an antioxidant called resveratrol. This antioxidant is in red grapes’ skin. If you are considering limiting your alcohol intake, you can get the same heart healthy benefits, by just eating grapes. Additionally grapes are high in potassium!
These next two top snacks require a bit more cooking skills and preparation, but still may be beneficial for heart health.
Oatmeal
Whether you prefer overnight oats or hot oatmeal fresh off the stove, oatmeal has been shown to be a heart healthy choice. Mash up a banana and add some low-fat milk for a filling and tasty breakfast or snack.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds come from a plant called Salvia hispanica. They are high in protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Mix your favorite low-fat milk with some chia seeds and keep in the fridge for at least three hours, but overnight is better for best results Here are some tasty chia seed pudding recipes to try from Andi Anne. You can even add them to your oatmeal.
DISCLAIMER: I am a medical professional, but I am not apart of your healthcare team. Always consult with your primary care physician or other medical professional of your healthcare team when making changes your your diet or lifestyle.
