Guide To The Top Heart-Healthy Foods

Oatmeal

Oats are high in beta-glucan, which is a type of soluble fiber. Research has demonstrated beta-glucan is effective at reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often called the 'bad' cholesterol because too much of it can lead to cardiovascular disease. Beta-glucan lowers LDL cholesterol by blocking the ability of the small intestine to absorb cholesterol. This also lowers total blood cholesterol. Eating oatmeal on a regular basis can decrease LDL cholesterol levels by as much as seven percent. Consuming about three grams of beta-glucan per day is thought to be ideal for preventing heart disease. This comes out to about sixty grams of dry oats, or about three-quarters of a cup.

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