Latest news with #Cardiologists
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
We Asked 3 Cardiologists the One Food They Always Keep in Their Pantry—Here's What They Said
Reviewed by Dietitian Jessica Ball, M.S., RD Getty Images. EatingWell design. Your heart pumps over 2,000 gallons of blood per day, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every cell and organ in your body, picking up waste along the way and sending it to be filtered. With how important this single organ is, it's no wonder that keeping your heart healthy is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and well-being. And while heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., there's a lot you can do to reduce your risk, starting right in your kitchen. Research shows that heart-healthy eating patterns like the Mediterranean diet and DASH diet can help improve key markers for heart health. These diets emphasize whole foods that are rich in fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants and plant-based proteins. But you don't have to overhaul your entire diet or break the bank to start supporting your heart. Keeping just a few simple heart-healthy ingredients in your pantry can make it easier to add important nutrients to your everyday meals and snacks. We asked cardiologists for their must-have pantry staples, and chances are you already have a few of them on your shelf. Here's what they recommend keeping stocked. 1. Olive Oil If you're wondering what oil to grab for roasting vegetables, whisking up marinades and dressings or finishing your pasta, olive oil can be a heart-healthy choice. 'I recommend keeping some delicious olive oil close at hand and using it as your primary cooking oil, but also to drizzle it on each of your meals throughout the day,' says Elizabeth Epstein, MD. Advertisement Olive oil has an extensive history of research supporting its role in improving cardiovascular health. A 2022 meta-analysis of 13 studies with over 865,000 participants found a strong relationship between olive oil consumption and a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. For every 5-gram (about 1 teaspoon) increase in olive oil per day, they found a 4 percent decrease in cardiovascular disease risk and all-cause mortality. 'The best nutrition evidence we have supports the Mediterranean diet, which has been tested in several randomized controlled trials and shown to reduce heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular death by 30 percent,' says Dr. Epstein. The liberal use of olive oil may be a key part of the puzzle with its high levels of anti-inflammatory polyphenols, antioxidants and oleic acid. While any olive oil will offer some benefit, extra virgin olive oil is highest in antioxidant and bioactive plant compounds that may offer additional benefits to your heart. 2. Legume-Based Pasta You don't have to skip pasta, even on a heart-healthy diet. 'One food I always keep stocked in my pantry is legume-based pasta, such as pasta made from edamame and mung bean, lentils, chickpeas or black beans,' says Dr. Danielle Belardo, M.D. Pasta made from legumes is typically higher in protein and fiber compared to wheat pasta, and can be much more filling. When it comes to heart health, eating more beans and bean-based foods is a safe bet. Multiple studies link legume consumption to improvements in lipid profiles and a reduced risk of heart disease, including one study suggesting that adults who eat legumes four times per week have a 22 percent lower risk of coronary heart disease than those who only eat them once each week. This is partly due to the high amount of soluble fiber found in legumes, which effectively lowers LDL-cholesterol and supports steady blood sugar. If eating whole beans several times a week feels like a big leap from where you're at, legume-based pasta can be a simple and approachable switch. 'It's nutrient-dense, easy to prepare and aligned with the principles of evidence-based heart-healthy eating,' says Dr. Belardo, who emphasizes legume-based pasta's positive impact on glycemic control, satiety and overall metabolic health. 3. Oats Your morning bowl of oatmeal may be doing more for your heart than you realize. Oats are rich in soluble fiber, beta-glucans and anti-inflammatory compounds, like phytosterols, all of which help lower cholesterol and support healthy weight management. Advertisement 'Oats, like all whole, plant-based foods, contain plant sterols, a group of substances made in plants that block cholesterol absorption in the digestive tract,' says Dr Elizabeth Klodas. Between soluble fiber binding cholesterol in the gut, plant sterols reducing absorption and beta-glucans positively influencing the gut microbiome and cholesterol metabolism, oats are a triple threat against heart disease. Just be sure to choose whole, minimally processed oats. Research shows they retain more of their fiber, beta-glucans and heart-healthy phytochemicals compared to ultra-processed or highly-sweetened oats and oat-based foods. Luckily, between overnight oats, hot oatmeal, granola, oatmeal pancakes and smoothies, there are endless ways to enjoy them! Our Expert Take Heart-healthy eating doesn't have to include a total pantry makeover. The foods cardiologists always have in their own pantries include simple staples like olive oil, oats and legume-based pasta. Regularly including these foods in a balanced, overall healthy diet may help lower cholesterol, support a healthy weight and protect your heart well into the future. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP originally appeared on Parade. Heart disease has been the leading cause of death for U.S. adults for a century, according to American Heart Association data. There are many reasons why someone may die from cardiovascular disease, and we can't control all of them. Yet, understanding risk factors and how to control what we can is critical, like managing high cholesterol if you have is one way. However, Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston, explains that lifestyle tweaks like diet are crucial, whether you benefit from medication for cholesterol or not. The good news?"Even minor adjustments to your diet can lead to significant clinical benefits if maintained over time, emphasizing the profound impact of self-care in managing high cholesterol and reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes," Dr. Kee various factors can complicate even making small changes to your diet, and you may unintentionally be consuming some heart-unfriendly foods. Cardiologists share the one habit to break if you have high cholesterol.🩺 💊 The No. 1 Habit Cardiologists Want People With High Cholesterol To Break ASAP Cardiologists are urging people with high cholesterol to not overlook saturated fat consumption. "We see a significant increase in heart disease risk with high consumption of saturated fats," warns Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health research suggests that saturated fat is more likely to affect cholesterol levels than dietary cholesterol, although this can vary from person to person. Not all fats are bad—monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that remain liquid at room temperature can have heart-healthy benefits. However, saturated fats, which solidify at room temperature, can pose risks, including higher odds of developing high cholesterol or having complications if you already do. "Saturated fat, typically found in animal products like red meats and full-fat dairy, influences your liver to produce higher levels of LDL—'bad'—cholesterol in your blood," explains , a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor. "LDL cholesterol circulates in your blood and can stick to artery walls, forming plaque. Over time, this plaque narrows arteries—a condition called atherosclerosis—and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes."For this reason, Dr. Suri notes that the American Heart Association recommends limiting your saturated fat consumption to less than 6% of your daily calories."This roughly translates to about 13 grams of saturated fat per day, if someone is consuming 2,000 calories per day," she notes. Related: Why It's Hard To Monitor Saturated Fat—Even With High Cholesterol Limiting saturated fat intake is difficult, even if you've gotten doctor's orders to do so for high cholesterol, concedes Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health."Controlling saturated fat intake is challenging for many individuals due to its prevalence in a wide array of appealing foods, including many fast-food options, often without obvious labeling," he says. "Frequently unrecognized sources include processed foods, such as ice cream and baked goods."The labels on the front of a food container don't always help you make the best decisions for your cholesterol. "Food labels can be misleading," Dr. Kee reports. "A 'reduced-fat' food might still be high in saturated fat or might contain higher amounts of sugar or sodium, which can confuse consumers trying to make healthier choices." Dr. Kee adds that the current hyperfocus on macronutrients—especially protein—can also lead people to reach for foods high in saturated fat. For instance, red meat is an "excellent" source of protein and saturated fat. Also? We're human. "Lifestyle factors like time constraints often lead individuals to opt for convenience foods, which are typically high in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium," he How To Eat Less Saturated Fat It's hard to reduce your saturated fat intake. However, cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "Reducing saturated fat intake is one of the most effective ways to protect heart health—and it doesn't have to mean giving up on flavor," Dr. Suri how to eat less saturated fat: 1. Prioritize fruits, vegetables and whole grains Deprivation is not on the menu when you're trying to manage cholesterol. Dr. Carstens recommends fiber-rich foods. Think apples, leafy greens and quinoa. "Loading up on these naturally low-fat and high-fiber foods helps displace higher-fat options in your diet and promotes fullness," he time you serve yourself a meal, take a look at your plate. Dr. Kee recommends loading half of it with vegetables. 2. Opt for leaner or plant-based protein Protein is an essential macronutrient, but Dr. Carstens says that choosing leaner cuts or plant-based options can help you cut back on saturated fat intake. Think skinless chicken, fish and legumes. If your cravings call for red meat, opt for a leaner cut. Dr. Kee is a fan of Meatless Monday, though any day to go full-on vegetarian works."Aim for at least one meatless meal per week to explore new protein options," he recommends. 3. Replace saturated fats Remember, "fat" isn't a dirty word, even when you're trying to reduce your cholesterol. The type of fat you regularly use to drizzle on salads or cook with can make a significant difference in your heart health. "Replace saturated fats with healthier options," Dr. Serwer advises. "Some excellent options include olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter or coconut oil." 4. Become a label detective When perusing the grocery store, be sure to look at the back of the food bag or canister, which paints a clearer picture of whether it's heart-friendly. "Many packaged and processed foods contain hidden saturated fats, even ones labeled healthy," Dr. Suri cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible, and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "A simple guideline is to choose foods with no more than 1 gram of saturated fat per 100 calories," Dr. Kee notes. "However, be mindful that 'reduced-fat' products might compensate with higher sugar or sodium content." 5. Limit eating out Many chain menus post nutrition information, and it's worth taking the time to read. However, Dr. Serwer says opting for home-cooked meals more often than not is a best practice for your heart health (and wallet, if we're being honest). "The best way to reduce saturated fats is to know what you are eating," he says. "Try your best to avoid eating at restaurants where ingredients are unknown." Up Next:Sources: Heart and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association. Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company Dietary saturated fat and cholesterol: cracking the myths around eggs and cardiovascular disease. Journal of Nutritional Science. The Skinny on Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Bhavna Suri, MD, a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor Saturated Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP first appeared on Parade on Jul 21, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 21, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP originally appeared on Parade. Heart disease has been the leading cause of death for U.S. adults for a century, according to American Heart Association data. There are many reasons why someone may die from cardiovascular disease, and we can't control all of them. Yet, understanding risk factors and how to control what we can is critical, like managing high cholesterol if you have is one way. However, Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston, explains that lifestyle tweaks like diet are crucial, whether you benefit from medication for cholesterol or not. The good news?"Even minor adjustments to your diet can lead to significant clinical benefits if maintained over time, emphasizing the profound impact of self-care in managing high cholesterol and reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes," Dr. Kee various factors can complicate even making small changes to your diet, and you may unintentionally be consuming some heart-unfriendly foods. Cardiologists share the one habit to break if you have high cholesterol.🩺 💊 The No. 1 Habit Cardiologists Want People With High Cholesterol To Break ASAP Cardiologists are urging people with high cholesterol to not overlook saturated fat consumption. "We see a significant increase in heart disease risk with high consumption of saturated fats," warns Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health research suggests that saturated fat is more likely to affect cholesterol levels than dietary cholesterol, although this can vary from person to person. Not all fats are bad—monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that remain liquid at room temperature can have heart-healthy benefits. However, saturated fats, which solidify at room temperature, can pose risks, including higher odds of developing high cholesterol or having complications if you already do. "Saturated fat, typically found in animal products like red meats and full-fat dairy, influences your liver to produce higher levels of LDL—'bad'—cholesterol in your blood," explains , a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor. "LDL cholesterol circulates in your blood and can stick to artery walls, forming plaque. Over time, this plaque narrows arteries—a condition called atherosclerosis—and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes."For this reason, Dr. Suri notes that the American Heart Association recommends limiting your saturated fat consumption to less than 6% of your daily calories."This roughly translates to about 13 grams of saturated fat per day, if someone is consuming 2,000 calories per day," she notes. Related: Why It's Hard To Monitor Saturated Fat—Even With High Cholesterol Limiting saturated fat intake is difficult, even if you've gotten doctor's orders to do so for high cholesterol, concedes Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health."Controlling saturated fat intake is challenging for many individuals due to its prevalence in a wide array of appealing foods, including many fast-food options, often without obvious labeling," he says. "Frequently unrecognized sources include processed foods, such as ice cream and baked goods."The labels on the front of a food container don't always help you make the best decisions for your cholesterol. "Food labels can be misleading," Dr. Kee reports. "A 'reduced-fat' food might still be high in saturated fat or might contain higher amounts of sugar or sodium, which can confuse consumers trying to make healthier choices." Dr. Kee adds that the current hyperfocus on macronutrients—especially protein—can also lead people to reach for foods high in saturated fat. For instance, red meat is an "excellent" source of protein and saturated fat. Also? We're human. "Lifestyle factors like time constraints often lead individuals to opt for convenience foods, which are typically high in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium," he How To Eat Less Saturated Fat It's hard to reduce your saturated fat intake. However, cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "Reducing saturated fat intake is one of the most effective ways to protect heart health—and it doesn't have to mean giving up on flavor," Dr. Suri how to eat less saturated fat: 1. Prioritize fruits, vegetables and whole grains Deprivation is not on the menu when you're trying to manage cholesterol. Dr. Carstens recommends fiber-rich foods. Think apples, leafy greens and quinoa. "Loading up on these naturally low-fat and high-fiber foods helps displace higher-fat options in your diet and promotes fullness," he time you serve yourself a meal, take a look at your plate. Dr. Kee recommends loading half of it with vegetables. 2. Opt for leaner or plant-based protein Protein is an essential macronutrient, but Dr. Carstens says that choosing leaner cuts or plant-based options can help you cut back on saturated fat intake. Think skinless chicken, fish and legumes. If your cravings call for red meat, opt for a leaner cut. Dr. Kee is a fan of Meatless Monday, though any day to go full-on vegetarian works."Aim for at least one meatless meal per week to explore new protein options," he recommends. 3. Replace saturated fats Remember, "fat" isn't a dirty word, even when you're trying to reduce your cholesterol. The type of fat you regularly use to drizzle on salads or cook with can make a significant difference in your heart health. "Replace saturated fats with healthier options," Dr. Serwer advises. "Some excellent options include olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter or coconut oil." 4. Become a label detective When perusing the grocery store, be sure to look at the back of the food bag or canister, which paints a clearer picture of whether it's heart-friendly. "Many packaged and processed foods contain hidden saturated fats, even ones labeled healthy," Dr. Suri cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible, and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "A simple guideline is to choose foods with no more than 1 gram of saturated fat per 100 calories," Dr. Kee notes. "However, be mindful that 'reduced-fat' products might compensate with higher sugar or sodium content." 5. Limit eating out Many chain menus post nutrition information, and it's worth taking the time to read. However, Dr. Serwer says opting for home-cooked meals more often than not is a best practice for your heart health (and wallet, if we're being honest). "The best way to reduce saturated fats is to know what you are eating," he says. "Try your best to avoid eating at restaurants where ingredients are unknown." Up Next:Sources: Heart and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association. Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company Dietary saturated fat and cholesterol: cracking the myths around eggs and cardiovascular disease. Journal of Nutritional Science. The Skinny on Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Bhavna Suri, MD, a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor Saturated Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP first appeared on Parade on Jul 21, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 21, 2025, where it first appeared.
The Independent
18-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
The diet tweak that can slash the risk of heart disease
Cardiologists recommend increasing consumption of leafy greens for cardiovascular health, as their dietary nitrate content improves vessel elasticity and nitric oxide production. Specific leafy greens such as bok choy, kale, and spinach are highlighted for their rich content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants beneficial for the heart. Studies show that people who consume more nitrate-rich vegetables, particularly leafy greens, can reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease by 12 percent. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. While a cup of leafy greens daily can be impactful, experts advise consuming a wide variety of fruits and vegetables rather than focusing solely on a few specific types.
Daily Mail
14-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Surprising ingredient in dessert favorites that raises your risk of a heart attack
Cardiologists are warning of an often overlooked ingredient in desserts that can lead to high blood pressure if consumed in excess. Typically a garnish on cookies, bread and butter, soft pretzels, and caramel treats, coarse sea salt contains more sodium than its less expensive grocery store alternative. People enjoy the added crunch and marriage of savory and sweet in desserts, but people are inadvertently eating too much salt. Because coarse salt has larger crystals, it may feel less salty per bite, leading some people to use more than they would with fine salt. Excessive sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. The body only needs a small amount of sodium to function properly. Sodium is an essential electrolyte that plays several critical roles in the body, including maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure, supporting nerve function, and enabling muscle contractions. Most Americans consume too much sodium, though – 3,300 mg per day on average, or about 40 percent more than the recommended 2,300mg limit. People tend to believe that coarse sea salt contains less sodium than standard fine salt, yet both contain about 40 percent sodium. Salt lurks everywhere in the Western diet, not just in processed meats, snack foods, but in unsuspecting foods, including breads, canned soups, frozen meals, cheese, sauces, and marinades. An estimated 89 percent of adults and around 94 percent of children consume too much sodium, according to the CDC. Eating too much salt is a major setup for high blood pressure. The World Health Organization also estimates that 1.9 million deaths globally each year can be attributed to eating too much salt. As sodium causes the body to retain fluids, blood volume and pressure on artery walls increase. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious health issues. Dr Brent Egan, an internist and vice president of cardiovascular health at the American Medical Association, said: 'It would take us about a little over 1,000 milligrams a day to get from where we are to where the recommendation would be for the upper limit.' 'And if we did that, we'd probably see a significant reduction in blood pressure, heart attack and stroke.' Roughly 116 million Americans have high blood pressure. Approximately 805,000 heart attacks occur each year, as well as 795,000 strokes. 'If someone has high blood pressure, heart disease, that type of thing, 1,500 milligrams is probably a better target, but for the general population that's really interested in limiting the burden of chronic disease, 2,300 milligrams is generally what is recommended,' Dr Egan said. Too much sodium also causes bloating – the uncomfortable feeling that the stomach is swollen and tight. Body parts like hands, feet, and ankles are likely to swell. And feelings of thirst take over due to dehydration. Too much salt before bed can also cause restless sleep. Studies suggest high-salt diets may alter cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which regulate sleep-wake cycles. A recent study by researchers at Vanderbilt University found that reducing daily salt intake by just one teaspoon is as effective as blood pressure medication. They tested high and low-salt diets on hundreds of patients, some of whom had high blood pressure, and found that cutting out a can of Heinz soup each day lowered people's blood pressure by six percent within a week. This reduction was comparable to that of thiazide diuretic hydrochlorothiazide, a popular blood pressure medication. 'Obviously we need some sodium—it's essential for life,' Dr Egan said. But 'here we are with an average intake of 3,400 milligrams. 'Now the body has to make a lot of adjustments, but we can get by with very little sodium,' he said, noting 'there's very little danger in this country that most people won't get enough sodium, even if they're eating those fresh foods and not processed foods. 'They'll still—for the most part—get more than sufficient sodium that the body needs,' said Dr. Egan. 'We live in a state of pretty much constant excess.'
