Eating whole grains is an important part of a heart-healthy diet, but where do you start? Here are six of the best grains for your heart.
Grains are plant food that provides your body with the vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates it needs to fuel your muscles, brain, and more. Eating whole grains is essential for your heart health, but it’s important to know that not all grains are the same.
For example, whole grains are those that still contain bran, germ, and endosperm, which means they tend to be high in nutrients, making them excellent for your health. In contrast, refined grains just have the high-carb endosperm, which means they provide almost health benefits.
If you want to know which specific grains are the best ones for your heart, then keep reading below.
1. Barley
Barley contains a higher dietary fiber than any other grain and has a variety of phytochemicals and beta-glucan, a soluble fiber. Its antioxidants may help improve your cholesterol health as well as your immunity.
2. Quinoa
You can cook quinoa in just 15 minutes, which makes it a great option for meal prepping. In addition, it is a source of complete vegetable protein, is rich in various nutrients, and contains fewer carbohydrates and more protein than other grains.
3. Amaranth
This small-sized, gluten-free whole grain has a protein content that ranges from 14 percent to 15 percent, which is higher than buckwheat and rye. Moreover, amaranth has phytochemicals and is rich in phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium.
4. Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a gluten-free whole grain that is commonly used as a cereal, in Japanese noodles, and in granola, pancakes, and crepes. It is high in soluble fiber and has antioxidants that may help with the prevention of cancer and heart disease.
5. Teff
If you like Ethiopian Injera bread, then you’ll be glad to know that teff is the main ingredient behind it. Even though it’s the tiniest grain of all, it’s one of the highest protein grains, it’s gluten-free, and is an excellent source of iron and magnesium.
6. Oats
Oats are a great source of polyphenols, which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents and act as antioxidants. Oats may help lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure while being a good source of fiber, iron, magnesium, and many other vitamins and minerals.
Eating Heart-Healthy
One of the best things you can do for your heart health is to include more healthy grains in your diet. By increasing your intake of these grains, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, you’ll strengthen your heart and overall health.
In addition to improving your diet, you can give your heart an extra boost by taking supplements like HeartBeet Complete. Its ingredients work together to promote circulation, blood pressure health, energy levels, and more. Give your heart the support it deserves by including these healthy grains in your diet and taking HeartBeet Complete.
