Red coloured foods that help reduce the risk of heart disease

Diet plays a key role in reducing the risk of heart disease. Red-coloured foods are packed with antioxidants, nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds that support cardiovascular health. Here are some heart-friendly red foods to include in your diet.
Tomato
Tomatoes are excellent for heart health. They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant responsible for their red colour. Lycopene helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, prevents plaque buildup in arteries and reduces blood pressure. Tomatoes can be eaten raw or cooked. Cooking tomatoes actually increases the body’s absorption of lycopene.

Beetroot
Beetroot is high in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. It helps relax blood vessels by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. Beets are also a good source of folate, fibre and potassium, all of which support heart health. Drinking beetroot juice before workouts can enhance stamina and benefit the heart.

Apple
Red apples are rich in flavonoids, particularly quercetin. This helps reduce inflammation and prevent blood clots. They also contain soluble fibre, which lowers cholesterol levels. Eating apples with the skin on can help reduce blood pressure and significantly lower the risk of stroke.

Red grapes
Red grapes, especially those with seeds, contain resveratrol, a compound known for its benefits to heart function and anti-inflammatory properties. Resveratrol also protects the interior linings of arteries and helps reduce oxidative stress in blood vessels. Eating a handful of red grapes three to four times a week can promote better heart health.

Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, polyphenols and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory effects. They also help increase HDL (good) cholesterol and lower blood pressure. A Harvard study has found that consuming strawberries and blueberries more than three times a week can reduce the risk of a heart attack by 32%. These fruits can be consumed raw, blended into smoothies or added to salads.
Incorporating these red fruits into your regular diet can do a world of good in supporting a healthy heart.