5 heart-healthy breakfast choices for people with cardiovascular disease

Based on the provided article, Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from Nutrihome Nutrition Center offers guidance on heart-healthy breakfasts, emphasizing their importance for individuals with cardiovascular disease. A balanced morning meal can help control bad cholesterol, sodium, and saturated fats, which in turn helps stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, ultimately reducing the risk of heart-related complications throughout the day. The article highlights that choosing the right foods is a key step in managing heart health.

Dr. Tung recommends several specific foods that are particularly beneficial for a heart-healthy breakfast. These include whole oats, which are rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol. He also suggests whole grain bread for its high fiber and vitamin content, which supports blood pressure regulation and vascular health. Unsweetened plant-based milk is another good option, as alternatives like almond or soy milk contain heart-friendly unsaturated fats and antioxidants. Boiled eggs are recommended for their high-quality protein, but with a warning for those with lipid disorders to limit their intake. Finally, fresh fruits like apples and bananas are great for their fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, which help lower blood pressure.

The article also provides clear warnings about what to avoid. Dr. Tung advises steering clear of breakfast foods that are high in oil, sugar, and processing, such as fried sticky rice, instant noodles, and pastries. These foods can negatively impact blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In addition to dietary advice, the article underscores the importance of a holistic approach to managing heart health. This includes essential lifestyle factors like regular health checkups, taking prescribed medications, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding both alcohol and tobacco. It also mentions a supplement called GDL-5, derived from sugarcane wax, as a potential aid for lowering blood lipids and total cholesterol.