Best Nuts For Heart Patients

By Tara Hari

Nuts are the perfect food for heart patients. They contain only healthy fats that are necessary for the proper functioning of your body and have zero cholesterol. The best part about incorporating nuts into our regular diet is that they are inexpensive and easy to store, so they can be consumed at any time. Nuts act as the perfect snack food, especially for people who have to take special care about their diets.

Nuts develop glycemic control, reduces the danger of heart disease and aid in preventing heart attacks. The functioning of your heart, immune system and arteries are boosted by the monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats present in nuts. Nuts are also an excellent source of protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals.

They are especially recommended for a heart-healthy diet. This is due to the ability of nuts to lower low-density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol level in the blood. One of the main causes of heart disease is high LDL in the blood. Nuts also significantly lower the risk of contracting blood clots that results in fatal heart attack. The lining of the arteries is also developed through regular consumption of nuts. Let us look at the best nuts that can be incorporated into the diet of a heart patient.

Almonds

Almonds

With a high content of protein, calcium and iron, almonds protect out hearts from strokes. The main reason why heart patients should pick almonds is due to its zero cholesterol content. Due to the presence of Vitamin E and fibre, almonds also prevent inflammation. It also lowers cholesterol levels in the blood stream.

Walnuts

Walnuts

As a result of its high alpha linoleic acid (ALA) content, walnuts are considered to be one of the best nuts for heart patients. Research has proven that ALA is beneficial for heart arrhythmias. Walnuts also decrease oxidation and inflammation in the arteries after the consumption of a fatty meal.

Cedar Nuts

Cedar Nuts

The origin of Cedar nuts can be traced to Russia and it contains almost 70 percent of the essential amino acid required by your body. It reduces the amount of cholesterol present in the body and rids the artery walls of inflammation and plaque which results in various heart diseases. This is because of the presence of a fatty acid that is akin to fish oil.

Pistachios

Pistachios

They are an excellent source of potassium and monounsaturated fats. Pistachios are high in Vitamin A and B6, as well as phosphorous and protein. They contain lower amounts of fat than most nuts.

Peanuts

Peanuts

A rich source of protein, plant sterols and folic acid, peanuts are recommended for every heart patient due to its low fat content. As it is a first-class source of fiber, niacin and vitamin B6, it keeps the heart free of diseases and ensures its efficient functioning.

Pecans

Pecans

It has been scientifically proven that consumption of pecans result in a significant lowering of cholesterol levels. Pecans are also a good source of manganese, zinc, plant sterols, vitamin A and fibre.

Brazil Nuts

Brazil Nuts

Due to the presence of nutrients and minerals which aid in maintaining a healthy heart like copper, niacin, vitamin E, fibre, magnesium, and selenium, Brazil nuts should be given priority by heart patients.

Cashews

Cashews

Containing mix of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, cashews are excellent for promoting heart health. Cholesterol levels are lowered in the body through the consumption of cashews, which prevents inflammation. Cashews are also a good source of manganese and phosphorous.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia Nuts

Although 10 to 12 Macadamia nuts contain only 2 grams protein and 21 grams fat, they are still very healthy for your heart. They provide you with a healthy dose of necessary fats and nutrients that maintain the healthy state of your heart.

Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are an excellent addition to every heart patient's diet due to the presence of omega-3 fats. According to a research the high amount of folic acid present in hazelnuts helps in preventing heart diseases. It is also a good source of Vitamin E, potassium and manganese.

Story first published: Friday, June 14, 2013, 18:53 [IST]
Read more about: heart food disease health