Dr. Oz's Heart-Healthy Grocery List
A healthy diet that includes foods like these may help lower your risk for heart disease.
By Dr. Mehmet Oz
Beet Greens
These frequently neglected leaves are a great source of insoluble fiber, a nutrient that helps block the absorption of cholesterol. They are also rich in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure.
Canola Oil
The plant sterols in canola oil help prevent your body from absorbing bad cholesterol. Additionally, it contains a host of antioxidants that reduce inflammation in the body. You only need to use a tablespoon of canola oil a day to get the benefits.
Dark Chocolate
The flavonols in cocoa can lower your blood pressure by relaxing your blood vessels and thinning your blood. By increasing the flexibility of your blood vessels, it lowers your risk of heart disease. To get the benefits of flavonoids, make sure to get dark chocolate that’s at least 70 percent cocoa. If you’re not sure, get bars that are labeled "pure," "dark" or "unprocessed."
Olive Oil
Olive oil contains a potent mix of antioxidants that can lower LDL while not negatively affecting your HDL. To get its heart-healthy benefits, the Food and Drug Administration recommends substituting about two tablespoons of olive oil a day for other fats.
Garlic
Lower your risk of heart disease by incorporating a single teaspoon of garlic powder (or one fresh garlic clove) into your diet every day. This potent flavor-booster helps prevent the build up of cholesterol in your bloodstream, keeping your arteries flexible and plaque-free.
Apples
According to a recent study, an apple a day may keep statins away. Loaded with fiber and flavonoids, eating just one apple a day may lower your risk of heart attack and stroke by reducing cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar.
Published 04/27/2014
