3 Foods That Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease and Promote Gut Health
Nutrition experts have identified three ideal foods that support heart health and enhance gut health due to their high content of antioxidants, healthy fats, and beneficial bacteria.
According to a report by Get Surrey, these foods are broccoli, tomatoes, and Greek yogurt.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a type of fermented yogurt made by straining traditional yogurt, giving it numerous health benefits.
It is a rich source of protein and contains beneficial bacteria that support gut microbiome balance and digestive health.
Dr. Sarah Berry, lead researcher at Zoe, a health technology company, emphasized the importance of Greek yogurt for gut health, explaining that the healthy bacteria it contains are crucial for digestive system function.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are well known for their high nutrient content, particularly vitamin C and antioxidants.
One of the most studied antioxidants in tomatoes is lycopene, which plays a crucial role in heart health by neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing inflammation.
Professor Tim Spector from King’s College London stated that lycopene from tomatoes may help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
He also pointed out that canned tomatoes have higher concentrations of lycopene compared to fresh tomatoes, making them a more valuable dietary addition. A report even suggests that regular tomato consumption may lower the risk of prostate cancer.
Broccoli
Broccoli offers a wide range of health benefits. It is rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C, helping to boost immune function and improve digestion. It has also been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers.
Broccoli contains a compound known as indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which acts as a plant estrogen and may help balance estrogen levels in the body, potentially reducing the risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast cancer.
According to Vijaya Surampudi, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, broccoli is particularly rich in sulforaphane, a phytochemical that studies have shown to have anti-cancer properties.
Research suggests that sulforaphane may help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including prostate, breast, colon, and oral cancers. Its ability to support detoxification processes in the body and protect cells from oxidative stress makes broccoli an essential component of a healthy diet.
