A cheap supermarket item could help you manage your heart health and blood pressure, according to an expert. Diet is one of the most important factors for looking after your cardiovascular health, along with movement.
Now Dr Corne Hurter, medical director for Services and Delivery at AXA Health, has revealed the best foods to eat to promote heart health, including one that costs less than a pound in most UK supermarkets. It comes as Google searches for ‘how to improve heart health’ have surged by 229% in the past month. Meanwhile, the British Heart Foundation revealed that there are over 8 million people in the UK living with cardiovascular disease.
Dr Hurter revealed that oily fish is one of the best things you can eat for your heart. “Eat oily fish twice a week. Fish such as mackerel, sardines, fresh tuna and salmon are an excellent source of omega-3 fats, which can help protect your heart against disease.
“Omega-3 fats can help protect the heart and blood vessels from disease, helping to improve circulation, prevent blood clots and lower blood pressure.”
A tin of sardines may be the cheapest option when it comes to oily fish. At the UK’s cheapest supermarkets, you’ll pick up a tin of sardines for as little as 69p.
Plus, they have a long shelf life, meaning you can stock up and always have some ready to introduce top salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes.
As well as oily fish, Dr Hurter recommends eating whole grains such as quinoa for their high fibre content, and seeds such as chia seeds, as they are high in fibre, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Additionally, he recommends certain exercises that can positively contribute to heart health, with cycling, running and swimming being his top picks.
When it comes to things to avoid or cut back on, he lists saturated fat, smoking and salt. Plus, he says that managing your weight is important when it comes to heart health, as “being overweight can increase your risk of heart disease”.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
