It’s a sad fact that cardiovascular disease remains the number one killer of both women and men in the United States of America.

Poor diet and lack of exercise are at the top of the chart when it comes to causes.

The answer for each person on a personal level? Move more and eat better.

A great place to start is by eating more fruits and vegetables and less processed foods. When it comes to fruits and veggies, the darker the hue, the more vitamins, and minerals contained.

One of the best fruits for heart health: Cherries!

Researchers believe that cherries provide a plethora of cardiovascular benefits due to the intensity of anthocyanins. Studies indicate that cherries may also help to lower cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as reduce inflammation and help dissipate belly fat. These are all specifically linked to risk of heart disease.

Supporting Evidence:

A University of Delaware research study found that older adults who drank cherry juice made from U.S.-grown tart cherries experienced a reduction in systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol.

Scientists reported a 26 percent decrease in total cholesterol levels in mice that were given a cherry powder, as well as a 65 percent reduction in early death – likely due to improved cardiovascular health.

The University of Michigan Cardioprotection Research Laboratory suggests cherries may help reduce the risk of stroke. They found that cherries acted similarly to prescribed drugs used to help regulate fat and glucose in patients with metabolic syndrome.

High levels of triglycerides in your blood raise your risk of heart disease. This study found that consuming 8 ounces of cherry juice daily helped to lower triglycerides by 17 percent, on average.

A high intake of anthocyanins – abundant in purple and dark red fruits and vegetables like cherries – has been associated with a decreased risk of myocardial infarction in young and middle-aged women.

How to Incorporate Cherries into Your Diet

Look for ways to add cherries to your eating plan. Start off the day with a glass of cherry juice or dress up your oatmeal with dried cherries and walnuts.

If you’re eating more omega 3-rich salmon, keep a bag of frozen cherries in your freezer to make a cherry glaze for your fish dishes.

Add dried cherries to your whole-grain dishes, and mix them into your fresh fruit salads.

Just eat them straight out of the bag or off the tree if you are lucky enough to have one.
The fact is cherries are very good for you and your heart – eat up!

For more health information and how to keep your heart in shape check back or make an appointment with Tampa Cardiovascular Associates of Tampa, Florida. www.tampacardio.com or call 1-813-975-2800.