Okay, I already know that “yummy” is relative to each person’s palate. Case in point, to this day, my siblings still don’t understand why I’m the only family member who can’t stomach the texture or taste of avocadoes. Even though we practically grew up on the green (mushy) delicacy in the sunny state of California, they still make me nauseous each time I even consider guacamole with my chips.
 |
| Image Source : http://wdy.h-cdn.co/ |
With that being said, the Seven
Yummy Heart Healthy Foods were compiled according to my distinct taste buds and their dense nutrient properties. Hope most are delicious to you as well, when served according to your unique specifications and overall sensibilities.
1. Kidney beans – Loaded with calcium, protein and B-
complex vitamins, when prepared with garlic, white or yellow onions and chives, you can be sure that you’re not only strengthening your heart, but your bones too. Jazzing up your dish with a little cayenne pepper will also increase your metabolism thereby helping you burn off unwanted fat.
2. Sweet potatoes – For those of us who like to occasionally replace russet potatoes with the sweeter variety, we’re continuing to do a really great thing for our health. Enriched with vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene, we’re also improving our eyesight,
immune system and well-being. Bake them, turn them into fries or whip up a delicious pie and you’ll definitely be doing yourself a flavorful favor.
3. Oatmeal – We already know that this breakfast cereal is packed with soluble fiber and that it is great for our skin and to maintain our pet’s shiny coat. But, were you aware that it’s also full of Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, potassium, niacin and calcium? Toss in some blueberries or strawberries along with almonds and or walnuts and if your heart was capable, it would probably reach out of your chest and kiss you for being so good to it.
4. Soy milk – Actually any bi-product of soy is a very wise choice. No longer only desirable to the
vegan lifestyle, this protein packed fluid can be incorporated into any non-allergic diet. It contains numerous rich benefits such as, niacin, B-complex vitamins, folate, etc. Replace cow’s milk with this much healthier fluid and your infrastructure will be glad you did.
5. Salmon – One of my favorite fish varieties because when grilled with lemon, marinade and fresh herbs, it can be so flavorful and moist that my mouth normally insists that I immediately shove in another scrumptious bite. Omega-3 fatty acids win the day again in our mission to promote
good health and a happy beating heart.
6. Papaya – When you consider the fact that most orange colored fruits and veggies are key sources of beta-carotene/vitamin A, then how can you even think about going wrong? Here’s another fabulous way to improve your vision and strengthen your heart by slowly consuming this tropical, succulent treat.
7. Tomatoes – Before I became an avid gardener, I was inspired by a former neighbor who was living in a tiny two bedroom apartment. My inspiration came from the fact that she was able to grow several thriving tomato plants, in her very compact kitchen. I don’t know what kind of soil or fertilizer she used in those pots, but those red beauties surely were impressive and quite sweet. It was gratifying to know that because of her efforts, generosity and abundance of produce, our families were ultimately filled with lycopenes, lutein, vitamin C, potassium, folate, fiber and plenty of beta-carotene.
So, take your pick from any of the seven
heart healthy foods. Mix and match and pile them on. Your eyes, mind, soul, spirit, bones and overall physique will also be glad you did
