Artery Cleansing Foods You Should Be Eating

avocado
avocado

Protect your heart with every bite of these natural foods!

1. Avocados: "Instead of using a whopping dollop of mayonnaise on your sandwich, try using thin slices of avocado," suggests Megan Madden, a registered dietitian in New York, NY. A 1996 study done by researchers in Mexico found that people who ate avocado every day for one week experienced an average 17 percent drop in total blood cholesterol. What's more, their levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol decreased and HDL ("good") cholesterol increased. Finding it tough to work avocado into your diet ? Try drinking it in this delicious smoothie.

2. Olive oil: A 2011 study found that people ages 65 or older who regularly used olive oil (for both cooking and as a dressing) were 41 percent less likely to have a stroke compared to those who never use olive oil in their diet. Use a little olive oil instead of butter or drizzle some over pasta, salad , or veggies to take advantage of its high mono- and polyunsaturated fats, Madden says. "And though it's a healthier option, remember to use these oils sparingly, as all fats still contain the same number of calories."

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3. Pomegranates:Pomegranate contains phytochemicals that act as antioxidants to protect the lining of the arteries from damage, explains Dr. Gregg Schneider, a nutritionally oriented dentist and expert on alternative medicine. A 2005 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice stimulated the body's production of nitric oxide , which helps keep blood flowing and arteries open.

4. Cinnamon: Just one teaspoon a day of antioxidant -rich cinnamon can help reduce fats in the bloodstream, helping to prevent plaque build up in the arteries and lower bad cholesterol levels by as much as 26 percent, according to recent research. Sprinkle some on your morning coffee or on these delicious crepes.

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5. Spinach: The potassium and folate found in spinach can help lower blood pressure, and according to recent research, one serving of nutrient-packed leafy greens (like spinach) a day can help reduce your risk of heart disease by 11 percent. Enjoy some in salads, omelets, or this yummy pasta salad.

Want to find out which other heart-healthy foods made the list? Check them out here!

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