By Aayushi Gupta
Published Jan 28, 2025
Antioxidants are essential for heart health as they help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation, key contributors to heart disease. Here are 7 antioxidant-rich foods that support cardiovascular health.
Green Leafy Vegetables
Vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They contain flavonoids, which help reduce blood pressure and improve blood circulation.
Berries
Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are loaded with anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant. It helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that is linked to reduced heart disease risk.
Dark Chocolate
Rich in flavonoids, dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow. Just a small portion can provide these heart-healthy benefits without overloading on sugar.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant. This is known to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering bad cholesterol levels and protecting blood vessels from damage.
Chia Seeds
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and antioxidants, chia seeds can help reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. This can improve overall heart health when included in a daily diet.
Nuts And Seeds
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and sunflower seeds, are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, fibre, and vitamins. They help lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and support overall heart health.
Green Tea
Loaded with catechins, a type of antioxidant, green tea has been linked to improved cholesterol levels and better blood pressure regulation. When consumed daily, it can lower the risk of heart disease.