8 simple ways to protect your heart Let your food sprout If your garlic grows green shoots, don’t bin it. Recent research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that sprouting garlic boasts more heart-protecting antioxidants than its fresher counterparts. Use it in this 10-minute protein-packed seabass to fuel up your cardiac muscle. Feel the pump. Get some sun Being trapped in your office all day could up your heart attack risk, with recent research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology finding that exposure to sunlight may lower blood pressure. It’s thought that topping up your tan reduces nitric oxide levels in the skin and blood, which also cuts your stroke risk. Explore the science of sunbathing to avoid your happy heart coming at the expense of frazzled skin. Scoff salmon Stress doesn’t just have you tearing your hair out. It also raises your heart attack risk. If your job has your blood pressure soaring, upping your intake of oily fish could help protect your ticker. Omega 3 in the likes of salmon, trout and tuna counteracts the impact of mental stress, as well as cutting prostate cancer risk and reducing late-life brain shrinkage. Follow our sushi guide to decompress the right way after a hellish day in the office. Be a better brusher The bacteria lurking in your gums doesn’t just cause bad breath and tooth decay. It also increases the rate at which plaques form in your arteries, making you more susceptible to heart disease. Upgrade your twice-daily two-minutes with these tips. The pearlier your whites, the healthier your heart. Eat early Whether you’re packing on muscle or shedding flab, skipping breakfast is a foolish move. But it’s not just your weight that suffers. Research from Harvard published in the journal Circulation found forgoing your porridge was associated with a 27% increase in the risk of heart attack or death from coronary heart disease. These speedy breakfasts will keep you in shape inside and out. Cheer up If you’re a glass half-empty kind of guy, prepare to feel even more pessimistic. A study published in the journal Psychological Bulletin found optimism, happiness and positive emotions protect against cardiovascular disease. Change your outlook by training your brain for all-day cheerfulness. Go (wal)nuts Nuts are a proven cardiovascular cleanser, but when it comes to your heart the walnut sits at the top of the tree. As well as dropping your cholesterol, indulging in a daily handful of walnuts or walnut oil boosts blood vessel function, according to research published in the Journal of Nutrition. They’re also rammed with cancer-cancelling antioxidants, which are enhanced by the superfoods in this blueberry breakfast yoghurt. Get some shut eye The most effective ways to boost your heart health is to exercise, eat right, and keep clear of cigarettes. But the impact of those four pillars is enhanced by logging at least seven hours sleep a night, according to research published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. You’ll also be at less risk of depression, diabetes and enjoy enhanced office productivity. Upgrade your downtime with our ultimate sleep guide.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 20:24:41 +0000
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