We all snack. Whether it’s to satisfy a craving or hunger, snacking is something most of us can’t live without. So why not opt for the best heart-healthy snacks so you can munch down on delicious food while also nurturing your body at the same time? Heart-healthy snacks are full of nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which promote overall heart health and well-being. Here are the best options to munch on.
6. Green Tea
While green tea is not necessarily something you can munch on, it’s still one of the best heart-health snacks you should have in stock at all times. Green tea has several health benefits, from increased fat-burning to cardiovascular health. It’s also great at preventing cell damage and reducing inflammation. What’s great is that green tea can be a simple drink, or you can add it to your baking recipes, like delicious matcha cakes.
5. Overnight Oats with Seeds
Refined carbohydrates increase the risk of coronary heart disease, which means whole grains are the better option. And oats are a delicious snack choice. Specifically, the trend of overnight oats. Simply add oats in a container, along with heart-healthy seeds such as flaxseeds and chia seeds that are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Add cocoa powder and cinnamon, then let sit in the fridge overnight soaked in milk. In the morning, you can eat as is, or add more toppings, like berries, or even dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants that boost heart health as well.
4. Canned Fish and Crackers
It’s known that omega-3 fatty acids have been studied extensively for their heart-health benefits. That being said, one of the best heart-healthy snacks is from a simple container of fish with whole grain crackers. Fish consumption is associated with lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, depression, and mortality.
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3. Garlic Hummus and Sliced Vegetables
Hummus is a beloved snack item for many. The dip is made out of chickpeas, which has shown positive effects when it comes to cardiovascular disease, as well as type 2 diabetes and obesity. But while hummus is one of the best heart-healthy snacks, choosing garlic hummus is even better, as garlic has shown health-promoting and disease-preventing effects with cancer, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders.
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2. Whole Wheat Avocado Toast
Whole grains, like whole wheat, brown rice, and rye are protective against heart disease. Swapping your bread out for whole grains is a great way to have the best heart-healthy snacks available at all times. A simple recipe is the trendy avocado toast, as the green fruit is an excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
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1. Berry and Walnut Salad
Full of fresh ingredients and light flavors, this salad is filled to the brim with ingredients to make the best heart-healthy snack. Just toss together baby spinach and arugula, with sliced strawberries, and crushed walnuts, all topped with a dressing made from balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Walnuts are known for protecting against heart disease, just like leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, which helps protect your arteries and promote proper blood clotting.