4 types of nuts help prevent heart attacks

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood supply to the heart muscle is blocked. A heart attack is usually caused by a blood clot forming in an artery. If not treated promptly, a heart attack can cause serious damage or death of the heart muscle, according to the health website Medical News Today (UK).

Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Photo: AI

Thanks to their rich nutritional content, the following nuts can help prevent heart attacks:

Chia seeds

Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which has been shown to reduce blood triglycerides, inflammation, and the risk of heart rhythm disorders. Chia seeds are also a good source of soluble fiber, which helps control LDL “bad” cholesterol levels.

Additionally, the antioxidant properties of chia seeds help reduce the effects of oxidative stress, which contributes to heart disease.

Flaxseed

Flaxseeds are known for their high content of ALA, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that helps protect the heart. Regular consumption of flaxseeds has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve artery health, and reduce harmful cholesterol levels.

Flaxseeds also contain lignans, a plant compound with antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and slow the progression of atherosclerosis. To get the most out of flaxseeds, people should eat ground flaxseeds rather than whole seeds. The thick shell of flaxseeds makes them difficult for the intestines to digest.

Hemp seeds

Hemp seeds are a rich source of arginine, an amino acid that helps the body produce nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels and regulate blood pressure.

Several studies have shown that consuming more arginine can help reduce blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation linked to heart disease.

Additionally, hemp seeds provide a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These two fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects and are essential for a healthy heart.

Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds, also known as sesame, are small but rich in lignans and phytosterols. Lignans have antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Phytosterols help reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, according to Medical News Today .