4 Food Groups To Keep Your Heart Beating Strong After 60

1: Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables form the foundation of a heart-healthy diet, supplying fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients that support healthy blood vessels and cholesterol levels. Fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables can all be healthy options, but it's important to read nutrition labels so you choose varieties with no added sugars or excess sodium. Fruits and vegetables that lower your risk of developing heart disease include:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, collard greens)
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons)
• Apples and pears
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli and cauliflower

2: Whole Grains

Whole grains are rich in fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and supports overall cardiovascular health. These include:

• Wild rice
• Brown rice
• Whole-grain bread
• Whole-grain pasta
• Oatmeal
• Barley

3: Heart-Healthy Proteins

Choosing lean and plant-based protein sources helps support heart health without adding excess saturated fat, especially if you substitute fat-free, unprocessed proteins in place of high-fat, dairy products. A few examples include

• Lean meats (skinless poultry, lean cuts of beef or pork)
• Eggs
• Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
• Seeds (chia seeds, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds)
• Low-fat yogurt
• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans)

4: Healthy Fats

Healthy unsaturated fats, especially those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, help reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol levels, and protect the heart when eaten in moderation. Eating the following in combination may increase your heart health benefits:

• Salmon
• Olive oil
• Avocado
• Walnuts
• Pine nuts
• Other nuts and seeds