Five Best Foods for a Healthy Heart and Longevity

Love can rule your world or ruin your life but affairs of the heart aren't limited to the relationships of love. That compact little organ in your chest runs your whole body and needs some special attention to help it do its job. Having a healthy heart is essential for longevity and wellness.

We are all well aware of the consequences of neglecting the heart. A healthy heart is essential for a health body. Besides getting in enough physical activity to get your heart pumping at least 3 times a week, eating foods rich in the nutrients will provide your body with the ammunition to fight high cholesterol and heart disease. Feed your heart a diet rich in the following five foods for a fighting chance at a life that is long and healthy.

How about tomatoes? Did you know they are a member of the fruit family? Most people don't, but tomatoes are rich in lycopene with is known to reduce the risk of heart disease.

It used to be an apple a day kept the doctor away, but like everything else, that number has been hit with inflation. It is now believed that 3 apples a day will provide a large percentage of your daily fiber requirement. Fiber does its part by keeping cholesterol levels low.

Popeye had the right idea about Spinach. It is high in folate which decreases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Spinach makes a very tasty substitute for iceburg lettuce in your salad. It will add a little zing to your tuna sandwich as well. Go with spinach wherever greens are called for.

If you're full of beans, its not a bad thing. Beans and legumes contain phytochemicals.( saponins, lignans and phytosterols but we won't delve into the specifics here) which are credited for fighting heart disease and cancers. They will also add more potassium and folate to the diet.

Go Fishing. At least cast your lure in the fresh seafood department of your local grocery store. Fresh fish are your heart's best friends, especially Salmon and Herring. These fish are rich in the healthy Omega 3 fatty acids and low in mercury. If you just dine on two servings of fish a week you're giving yourself an edge over heart difficulties. You will be 36% less likely to die of heart disease if you make fish a permanent part of your diet.

In addition to the above, feed your heart with whole grains like oats and wheat and you'll be around to live, love and laugh well into your AARP years.