Foods Blessings from Mother Nature..!!

The latest results in from medical research show that there are foods that help fight  inflammation -- give us a better chance at fighting clots that block blood-flow to the heart. These studies are based on understanding how biochemical fluctuations cause heart attacks and strokes.

Traditionally, these nutrient-rich foods are part of a staple diet from the Mediterranean countries of Greece, and Italy .

few of these are here for you..!!

• Fishes -- like salmon, tuna, mackerel etc -- Have these at least twice a week. (omega-3 fatty acids protect your heart as they contain certain anti-inflammatory substances which help in preventing inflammation of the arteries).

• Flax seed -- These are rich in alpha linolenic acid, a precursor of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower total and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and thus reduce the risk of heart disease. One can take upto 1 tbsp of ground flax seed per day -- sprinkle it on salads, on yogurt, or mix it with jaggery and make balls. Ground flax seed gets rancid very quickly, so store it in the refrigerator and freshly grind just before using.

• Olive oil -- For your salad preparations. (Olive oil reduces the 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels and thus helps in reducing the risk of heart disease).

• Nuts like walnuts and almonds -- These must be included in your diet, but in moderation. They keep your cholesterol levels in check and help raise HDL (high density lipoprotein -- the good cholesterol) levels.

• Tomatoes -- In salads, or better yet stewed in cooked foods (tomatoes contain lycopene, which reduces the risk of heart disease by preventing blood platelets from sticking together).

• Oatmeal -- Cereal at breakfast with low-fat milk or soy milk is excellent (oats contain soluble fibers -- beta glucan that reduces LDL cholesterol).

• Fresh fruit -- Consume them every day (apples contain quercetin, a phytochemical that prevents the formation of blood clots, fibre and vitamins. All deep-coloured fruits -- at least two cups a day -- will have the same effect on heart health).

• Whole grains -- Breads like pitas, rotis, and whole-wheat rolls are full of fibers. Also whole grains lower cholesterol and supply vitamins and antioxidants that may help to regulate blood pressure -- a heart helper !!

• Deepest green leafy vegetables -- Such as spinach and cabbage. These contain folate, a nutrient that reduces homocysteine levels (homocysteine is a molecule that's a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and strokes). These greens are also rich in Vitamin E.

• Tofu or soy protein -- High-quality protein contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals -- all the ingredients for a heart-healthy meal. It can also help lower triglycerides, which have been shown to prevent heart attacks.

• Green tea -- It's rich in tea polyphenols which are strong anti-oxidants and have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea may also reduce the risk of a cardiovascular disease. It's best to drink green tea without any sugar, milk or cream

So..stay healthy.. because you are blessed...!!