Heart disease is one of the most common diseases affecting Nigerians, owing primarily to a lack of awareness about the risk factors that can predispose us to it....CONTINUE READING
As a matter of fact, the foods we eat can either contribute to or mitigate heart disease. Here I’ll discuss three key risk factors for heart disease and two Nigerian foods that may be useful in preventing or treating it.
There is a wide variety of cardiac conditions, and each one is associated with its own unique combination of risk factors.
1. The presence of excessive levels of cholesterol in the blood is the primary factor in the development of heart disease.
According to healthline, The accumulation of cholesterol molecules within the arterial walls can cause an obstruction of blood flow, which in turn can cause high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, both of which can lead to a variety of heart conditions and issues, such as myocardial infarction, angina, congestive heart failure, and so on.
2. Diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, which can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The exact cause is unclear, however elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels are linked.
Now that we’ve covered what makes people susceptible to heart disease, I’ll go through some local options for protecting yourself.
1. Beans. Beans, whether in the form of soup or porridge, are a great source of soluble fiber, which has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels and prevent the development of cardiovascular disease in people with diabetes.
So, rather than stuffing yourself with unhealthy meals like junk food, try eating some hearty local fare like bean soup or porridge.
2. Okra Soup. Scientists believe okra has a chemical called pectin, which helps to reduce the level of cholesterol in your blood, making it an ideal food for people looking to lower their cholesterol levels.
