在春节期间，我们常常 indulged ourselves with lavish feasts and irregular eating habits, resulting in the accumulation of toxins in our bodies. If we fail to detoxify in a timely manner, it can have negative effects on our overall health, particularly our cardiovascular system. So, how can we effectively eliminate toxins stored in our hearts? Below, I will introduce nine types of healthy foods that can help you effortlessly cleanse your heart of toxins.

Oats

Oats are rich in linoleic acid and B vitamins, which can prevent the formation of arterial atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, the high soluble fiber content in oats helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. Therefore, regular consumption of oats can help balance your diet, provide adequate nutrition, and prevent hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. You can cook oats with water or milk, and add nuts or fresh fruits to make it nutritious and delicious. Similarly, consuming whole wheat bread can have the same beneficial effects.

Spinach and Carrots

Spinach is abundant in folate, and studies have shown that taking folate can reduce the risk of heart disease by 25%. Carrots contain carotenes, which can be converted into vitamin A, promoting blood vessel dilation and preventing strokes. Spinach contains a significant amount of oxalic acid, which hinders calcium absorption, so it's best to blanch it in water before consumption. Carrots should be cooked with oil to ensure proper absorption of carotenes by the body.

Fish

Compared to most meats, fish has lower levels of fat and saturated fatty acids, especially marine fish, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids increase the levels of "good" cholesterol in the blood while helping to remove "bad" cholesterol. Research has shown that this type of fatty acid can also reduce the risk of stroke, which explains why countries and ethnic groups with a high consumption of fish have lower stroke rates. Steaming fish is the best cooking method to preserve its nutritional content.

Soybeans and Soy Products

Soybeans are rich in essential amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids, which promote fat and cholesterol metabolism, keeping the cardiovascular system healthy. Apart from processing soybeans into soy milk, tofu, and fermented soybean paste, you can also make soybean rice. When cooking soybean rice, soak the soybeans in hot water for at least 4 hours, then change the water and cook them with rice. This helps dissolve the polysaccharides in soybeans that can cause bloating.

Black Sesame Seeds

Black sesame seeds are rich in vitamin E, which plays a significant role in maintaining the elasticity of blood vessel walls. They also contain abundant alpha-linolenic acid, which lowers blood pressure and prevents blood clot formation. Since the nutritional components of black sesame seeds are hidden within the seeds, they must be cracked open for effective consumption. It is recommended to lightly fry them to enhance their flavor or grind them into powder for consumption.

Black Fungus (Wood Ear Mushroom)

Black fungus contains a substantial amount of gelatinous active substances, which significantly shorten clotting time and help promote blood circulation, preventing blood clot formation. Due to its unique dual regulation of blood clotting and blood thinning, black fungus is often referred to as a "natural anticoagulant" and is beneficial in preventing and treating coronary heart disease and cardiovascular diseases. However, black fungus has a laxative effect, so it is not suitable for those who are prone to diarrhea.

Green Tea

Green tea is extremely rich in nutrients, with one of its key components being tea polyphenols. Research has found that tea polyphenols can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, effectively preventing atherosclerosis, reducing blood pressure and blood lipids, and preventing blood clot formation. Since tea polyphenols are sensitive to high temperatures, it is best to brew green tea with warm water to maximize its health benefits. Apart from green tea, other teas such as black tea, floral teas, oolong tea, white tea, yellow tea, and black tea (Pu-erh tea) also have the same cholesterol and triglyceride-lowering effects.

Nuts

Almonds, peanuts, and other nuts are rich in beneficial amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids that can lower the risk of heart disease. Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health conducted a study on a group of survivors of heart attacks. The latest findings revealed that consuming 1/3 cup of dried beans daily can reduce the probability of recurrent heart attacks by 38%. Almonds, walnuts, and peanuts contribute to heart protection, but a handful (about 42 grams) per day is sufficient; excessive consumption should be avoided.

Potatoes

Also known as potatoes or sweet potatoes, this food is rich in vitamin C, sodium, potassium, iron, and particularly abundant in potassium, with 502 milligrams per 100 grams, making it one of the few high-potassium vegetables available. Patients with heart disease, especially those with heart failure, often have a tendency towards low potassium levels. Regular consumption of potatoes can not only replenish potassium but also provide carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. However, fried potato products are harmful to the heart.

Cabbage is highly nutritious, containing vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, calcium, potassium, and more. A medium-sized cabbage can provide 220% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C and 15% of beta-carotene, playing a role in reducing the risk of heart attacks. Additionally, the high fiber content helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

By incorporating these nine types of healthy foods into your diet, you can effectively eliminate toxins stored in your heart and promote cardiovascular health. Remember to enjoy them in moderation and adopt a balanced and varied diet for optimal results.