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5 foods cardiologists recommend for healthier arteries and better heart vessels repair

 How food helps arteries
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How food helps arteries
Diet can’t “melt” plaque overnight, but patterns rich in soluble fiber, omega‑3 fats, nitrates, and polyphenols lower LDL, improve nitric oxide signaling, and calm inflammation—all crucial for slowing atherosclerosis and supporting vessel repair pathways.
Oily fish (omega‑3s)
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Oily fish (omega‑3s)
EPA/DHA from fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel support triglyceride reduction, plaque stability, and endothelial function; aim for 2 servings/week or discuss supplements if vegetarian. Grill or tawa‑sear with mustard/garlic; add a lemon‑herb yogurt dip; for veg options, see flax/chia in Slide 5.
 Extra‑virgin olive oil (polyphenols + MUFA)
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Extra‑virgin olive oil (polyphenols + MUFA)
EVOO’s phenolics and monounsaturated fat improve lipid profile and endothelial responsiveness when swapping for butter/vanaspati, fitting a Mediterranean‑style pattern cardiologists favor. Use 1–2 tablespoons daily to dress salads, drizzle on cooked dal/sabzi off heat, or for low‑to‑medium‑heat sauté.
Nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios)
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Nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios)
Nuts provide unsaturated fats, arginine, magnesium, and antioxidants that lower LDL and support nitric‑oxide pathways; consistent handful‑sized portions correlate with better cardiometabolic markers. 28–30 g/day as a snack or topping for dahi/oats; avoid sugar‑coated or heavily salted mixes to keep sodium low.
 Flaxseed and chia (plant omega‑3 + fiber)
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Flaxseed and chia (plant omega‑3 + fiber)
ALA‑rich seeds and soluble fiber aid LDL lowering, triglyceride control, and anti‑inflammatory signaling; they’re practical omega‑3 options for vegetarian diets. 1–2 tablespoons ground flax or chia in curd, smoothies, or multigrain roti dough; hydrate well with chia to prevent GI discomfort.
 Leafy greens and beets (dietary nitrates + K)
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Leafy greens and beets (dietary nitrates + K)
Spinach, beetroot, and other nitrate‑rich vegetables enhance nitric oxide bioavailability, supporting vasodilation and endothelial function central to healthy blood flow. Add palak to dal, toss spinach into omelets, or blend beet‑carrot‑lemon juice without added sugar; roast beet cubes for salads.
(Disclaimer: Not professional medical advice. Only for general educational purposes.)
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