Food 9. Tomatoes: The Heart’s Bright Red Guardians
Tomatoes, the bright red guardians of heart health, are packed with lycopene, a natural plant pigment with powerful antioxidant properties. Lycopene has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Tomatoes are also an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate, all of which are beneficial to heart health. Moreover, they contain fiber, which can help lower the level of LDL cholesterol in your blood.
Several studies have linked tomato consumption with a reduced risk of heart disease. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that individuals with more lycopene in their blood had a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Incorporating tomatoes into your diet can be done by adding them to salads, using them in sauces or stews, or simply enjoying them raw as a snack. (9)