The heart is a vital organ of the circulatory system that pumps blood containing oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It also serves other functions like controlling blood pressure and heart rate. Heart health depends on several factors, including family history and personal health. The food a person eats also determines the overall health of their heart. Here are eight delicious and nutritious foods one should eat to improve heart health.

Dark chocolate
Those who enjoy dark chocolate might be overjoyed to know that the cocoa-rich product does wonders for the heart. Its high cocoa content is a significant source of antioxidants and minerals. Eating it can help protect one from heart disease. However, dark chocolate contains sugar and calories, which is why it must be eaten in moderation to avoid any side effects.

Almonds
Eating a cup of almonds daily can help nourish the body with minerals and vitamins essential for heart health. Almonds contain nutrients like monounsaturated fats and fibers that are essential to protect a person from heart diseases. Eating almonds can also help improve good cholesterol (HDL) levels, which may help reduce the buildup of plaque and keep the arteries clear. One should keep in mind that almonds are also rich in calories. They must be eaten in moderation to avoid any negative impact on the body.

Avocados
Including avocados in your daily meals can be highly beneficial. The fruit contains potassium, an element essential to boost heart health. Avocados also nourish the body with monounsaturated fat compounds that reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and prevent heart disease.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are considered one of the healthiest food choices for heart health. They contain a natural plant pigment known as lycopene, which contains antioxidative properties. This helps eliminate harmful free radicals and prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. Adding tomatoes to certain meals can also contribute to improved blood pressure and endothelial function.

Peanut butter
Most people enjoy combining peanut butter with other foods for breakfast or other meals throughout the day. The food contains multiple heart-healthy properties. Peanut butter is a rich source of arginine — an amino acid that helps keep heart diseases at bay by improving blood vessel functioning. This food also contains Omega-6 fatty acids that help reduce unhealthy cholesterol levels.

Blueberries
Eating a handful of blueberries daily may significantly help boost one’s overall heart function. The fruit is rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, which protect the body from inflammation and oxidative stress. Thus, eating the fruit can help reduce the risk of a number of heart diseases. Apart from blueberries, one can also add raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries to their meals.

Chia seeds
Eating chia seeds can have a number of benefits due to its fiber and Omega-3 fatty acid content. One should also consider eating flaxseeds and hemp seeds. The properties present in these seeds help reduce heart disease risk factors like inflammation, triglycerides, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

Garlic
Combining garlic with most foods can prove to be helpful for overall heart function. This is because it contains allicin, a compound that helps reduce blood pressure and bring down total cholesterol levels. Research also indicates that eating garlic may negate platelet buildup, which reduces the risk of stroke and blood clots.