1. Water
Hydration is essential for your heart because, according to Dr. Jessup, your blood benefits from proper hydration, which helps it work better. Proper hydration ensures your body efficiently transports oxygen through the arteries and supports your body’s ability to eliminate waste. Water also helps you maintain body temperature and is essential for digestion and nutrient absorption. In short, starting your day with a few ounces of water is a good idea.
2. coffee
A cup or two of coffee can be part of a healthy diet, says Dr. Jessup. In fact, coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of heart failure. However, consuming so much that you’re craving is where you need to be careful, he adds. Everyone’s body is different; however, until 400 milligrams of caffeine per day (about four or five eight-ounce cups of coffee) is considered safe for most adults.
You should also consider drinking some water while you wait for the coffee to brew. Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it encourages the kidneys to expel more water at a faster rate than average, according to the Mayo Clinic. So having a glass of water can replenish the fluids you’re losing when you consume diuretics like coffee.
3. Select fruit juices
Fresh juice from heart-healthy fruits and vegetables, such as raspberries, blueberries, kale, carrots, and blackberries, they are a great addition to your morning routine. Juice from antioxidant-rich berries, grapes, blueberries, cherries, carrots, celery, and oranges can help your cardiovascular system because there is evidence that chemicals such as flavonoids or polyphenols reduce inflammation, strokes and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
There are significant heart health benefits, but be aware that the high sugar content in juice can alter your blood glucose levels in a way that could harm your cardiovascular health over time, he says. Sunny Vikrum Malhotra, MDNew York State Board Certified Cardiologist with Premier Cardiology and president of Cardiac recording support. He recommends combining high-sugar juices with a balanced meal rich in protein and fiber. When consumed on an empty stomach, sugar can rapidly raise blood sugar levels. However, as part of a balanced breakfast, your blood sugar level may rise and fall slowly. This slow rise in blood glucose is beneficial for your long-term heart health.
4. Heart healthy smoothies
If you’re looking for a great morning drink, you might consider having a fiber-filled, omega-3 protein, antioxidant shake for breakfast, says Dr. Jessup. Omega 3 fats like nuts and seeds are linked to lower blood pressure and risk of stroke, and antioxidants such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries help rid the body of “free radicals” or cells that could cause cancer. Fiber like oatmeal or whole grains have a low glycemic index, which can contribute to a slow rise in blood sugar rather than rapid spikes and crashes. (We have one delicious blueberry smoothie you can enjoy.)
5. Green tea
Green tea is an excellent option for your brain and heart if you are looking for a dose of caffeine. An article published in nutrition review says that, in Southeast Asian countries, there is a connection between green tea consumption and fewer cardiovascular health problems, including lowering LDL cholesterol levels.
6. Golden milk/turmeric latte
Turmeric has very well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. Related to ginger, turmeric also helps control anxiety and upset stomach. However, according to Cleveland Clinic, curcumin makes turmeric a cardiovascular superstar. There is evidence that the compound protects the body against cardiovascular disease in the long term. So, to get the benefits of turmeric in the morning, you can use your favorite type of milk, turmeric, ginger for added flavor, and a little black pepper. Black pepper is important because it contains an ingredient called piperine, which makes it is up to 2000% easier for your body to absorb the benefits of turmeric. (We have a few good recipes so that you try.)
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