Myocardial infarction occurs when one or more coronary artery branches are suddenly blocked, often due to a blood clot forming on a ruptured atherosclerotic plaque. This blockage disrupts blood flow to the heart, causing a portion of the heart muscle to be damaged or necrotized. Maintaining a healthy diet is one of the important measures to prevent this condition and protect cardiovascular health.

Eat omega-3 rich foods

According to Eating Well, omega-3s are a group of unsaturated fatty acids abundant in fatty fish, nuts, and avocados. This nutrient can help reduce blood triglyceride levels, a type of fat linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Omega-3s also possess anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the reduction of chronic inflammation in the body. Prolonged inflammation is considered a factor that accelerates the process of atherosclerosis.

Eating fatty fish one to two times per week, combined with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, can contribute to protecting cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Do not skip breakfast

Eating breakfast helps kickstart metabolism after a long night of fasting. Regularly skipping breakfast can make it difficult for the body to control blood sugar, increasing hunger and leading to overeating at subsequent meals. Over time, this habit increases the risk of overweight, high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance. These are all factors that promote atherosclerosis, narrow coronary arteries, and heighten the risk of myocardial infarction.

Eating foods rich in good fats helps protect the heart. Photo: Anh Chi

Eat potassium-rich foods

Consuming potassium-rich foods primarily helps prevent myocardial infarction by supporting blood pressure control. Potassium can help balance sodium levels in the body, promoting sodium excretion through urine, thereby reducing pressure on blood vessel walls. Maintaining stable blood pressure limits arterial damage and slows the process of coronary atherosclerosis.

Potassium also contributes to maintaining the normal function of the heart muscle and nervous system, helping the heart contract efficiently. Bananas, sweet potatoes, beans, avocados, and green leafy vegetables are rich in potassium, according to Times of India.

Eat unsweetened yogurt

Unsweetened yogurt contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that can help maintain the balance of the gut microbiome. Some studies indicate that a healthy gut microbiome is linked to reduced chronic inflammation, a factor contributing to the increased risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation and cardiovascular disease.

Yogurt also provides protein, calcium, and potassium. Replacing sugary snacks with unsweetened yogurt can help manage weight, blood sugar, and blood pressure, thereby contributing to cardiovascular health.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)