The heart is a muscle found in most living animals, including humans, that pumps blood through the network of arteries and veins around the entire body. A heart attack occurs when a part of the heart stops responding due to the blockage of blood flow, which is also known as blood clotting. Blood clotting or blockage is most often caused by the accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Heart attacks can be fatal, but medical treatment has also vastly improved in recent years. Heart attacks can be caused by fully clogged blood vessels or even by partially blocked ones.
Although the medical treatment for a heart attack has dramatically improved over the years, it is always safe to avoid one. The British Heart Foundation found that people might have a blockage in arteries or heart vessels without even knowing it, and they only get to know it when they have a heart attack. In this article, we will read about a few of the foods and fruits that can be consumed on a regular basis, which can help cleanse the blood vessels or clean the arteries in the heart and prevent heart attacks naturally.
Fatty Fish
Fish should be the first thing that needs to be increased in an everyday meal. Fish contains a significant amount of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to control blood cholesterol. Increased blood cholesterol can lead to blocked arteries, which can result in heart attacks. A US clinical nutrition study found that individuals who consume more fatty fish have healthier hearts than those who do not include fatty fish in their daily meals.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed has been shown to be beneficial for both primary and secondary heart disease. Flaxseed contains Omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, which help to make the heart healthy. Flaxseed can be taken by mixing it with yogurt, cereal, salad, or simply drinking it with regular water.
Turmeric
In many studies, turmeric has been shown to be beneficial for the heart, protecting it from various metabolic conditions that can lead to the development of heart disease. Turmeric powder can be sprinkled over scrambled eggs, vegetables, soup, or it can even be blended with a smoothie. A proper amount should be added to avoid the bitter taste of turmeric.
Citrus Fruits
A study confirmed that fruits containing citrus can help reduce blood pressure and stenosis. Studies have shown that Viscous Fibre-containing fruits can also help prevent the arteries from getting clogged. Lemons, oranges, and grapefruits can be a good source of the above-mentioned nutrients.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate has proven to be beneficial for the heart in clinical studies. It prevented many pathological changes that are clearly linked to heart diseases. Pomegranate can help the heart by reducing oxidative stress and with many other beneficial results.
Walnuts
Research has found that Walnuts increase the flexibility of the arteries. Additionally, it was also found to protect the arteries from getting damaged due to the consumption of food high in saturated fat. Just have a few walnuts every day to keep your heart arteries flexible.
What are the symptoms of a Heart Attack?
Heart attacks can be fatal. Not all heart attacks have similar symptoms, but some can arrive even without notice and can strike suddenly. However, many individuals tend to get heart attack warning symptoms weeks, days, or hours before. Common symptoms are given below:
- Pain, pressure, or a squeezing sensation in the chest, which may spread to the neck, jaw, or back.
- Nausea, heartburn, or abdominal pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Fatigue.
- Dizziness.
- Cold sweat.
How to avoid Heart Attack?
Heart attacks often happen when blood flow to the heart is blocked. But the good news is that heart attacks can be prevented by taking care of your body and adopting a healthy lifestyle. You don’t have to make big changes overnight, but small steps each day can make a big difference.
Start with your food. You can start eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein like fish or chicken. Reduce your intake of fried foods, processed snacks, and sugary drinks. Consuming too much salt or fat can raise your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which puts extra strain on your heart.
You can stay active. Try to move your body for at least 30 minutes a day. You don’t have to go to a gym. Walking, cycling, dancing, or even cleaning the house can help keep your heart strong. Regular exercise can improve blood flow and help to maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid smoking and limit consumption of alcohol. According to the British Heart Foundation, smoking damages blood vessels and reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood. And drinking too much alcohol can also increase blood pressure and heart disease. If you smoke, talk to a doctor or use a support program to quit immediately.
Watch your stress level. Excessive stress can lead to high blood pressure, which increases your heart’s workload. Try to relax by practicing deep breathing, reading, or spending time with loved ones. Sleep for at least seven hours a night to allow your body to recover.
Finally, visit your doctor for regular checkups. Doctors will test your blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels. If anything looks high, you can treat it early. Taking care of your heart doesn’t need to be hard. With a few simple daily habits, you can keep your heart healthy and lower your risk of a heart attack.
