We are repeatedly told that certain foods are bad for our health. Deep-fried dishes, for example, could lead to an increased risk of heart disease. On the other hand, a diet of whole grains, lean protein, and unprocessed foods will go a long way in improving overall well-being.
Soy Products
Recent studies have shown that we can add soy to the list of heart-healthy products. Scientists at the Maastricht University followed a group of 23 adults aged 60 to70. They supplemented some of the participants’ meals with soy nuts for four months. Researchers found that these individuals had lower LDL (cholesterol) and blood pressure than others in the group.
Jennifer Maeng, a registered dietician, said that although the study results were promising, they should be treated cautiously. She pointed out that the sample size used was relatively small.
Maeng also mentioned that factors like vitamins and minerals could have similar effects on blood vessels. It’s therefore difficult to determine if the benefits were solely from the soy. She added that for some people, consuming too much soy could have adverse effects on their hormone levels.
The Proper Approach
Many factors play a role in keeping the ticker functioning correctly, including food, lifestyle, and genetics. Therefore, it’s essential to pay attention to all these factors if you want to improve your well-being. Moderate exercise that includes muscle-strengthening workouts will go a long way in reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Substituting processed foods for more nutritious meals will also be beneficial.
When it comes to heart health, the best approach is to implement lasting lifestyle changes.
