Named three aspects of heart health that are related to nutrition

Peculiarities of human nutrition affect health in general and the state of the cardiovascular system in particular. German specialists named three aspects of heart activity that are closely related to the daily diet.

Obesity and atrial fibrillation. This type of cardiac arrhythmia (fibrillation) is one of the most dangerous: it increases the risk of heart failure and sudden death, more than a third of cases end in a stroke.

"The health of the myocardium is disturbed due to the change in electrical impulses, which is caused by inflammation and scarring in the muscle tissue of the heart. Pathology can occur due to other diseases, hereditary factors, as well as an unhealthy lifestyle," experts explain.

According to them, the development of atrial fibrillation is closely related to nutrition, which contributes to obesity. In turn, a healthy diet helps prevent it.

"A balanced menu with a lot of fresh, natural and vegetable products neutralizes such risk factors as high blood pressure, overweight, diabetes. Studies have shown that obese people who lost 10-15 kilograms of weight thanks to a healthy diet experienced significantly fewer attacks of atrial fibrillation than those who kept their extra kilograms," the scientists say.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) and high cholesterol. This aspect of cardiac disorders is associated with damage to the coronary artery, which supplies the organ with oxygen and nutrients. The inner walls of the artery are covered with cholesterol accumulations (plaques), accompanying the development of atherosclerosis.

"Diet with a lot of fast food, fat, red meat (especially processed), lack of fruits and vegetables contributes to many heart diseases, including coronary heart disease. Coronary arteries damaged by deposits lose flexibility due to inflammatory reactions, becoming increasingly narrow. When they are blocked by clots, heart muscle tissue dies, and a heart attack develops," experts said.

Mediterranean cuisine and a healthy heart. Studies show that people who have suffered a heart attack should follow this diet to reduce the risk of a second heart attack - then it is reduced to 50 percent.

"Nutrition according to the principles of Mediterranean cuisine is the most important aspect of heart disease prevention. Its main components are vegetables, salads, whole grains, herbs, nuts and fruits. "Meat is used occasionally, more often - fish," the doctors shared.