According to Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from the Nutrihome Nutrition Center, individuals with heart conditions should choose breakfasts rich in nutrients but low in LDL cholesterol, sodium, and saturated fat. A proper breakfast helps stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications throughout the day.

Plain oatmeal is rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that can reduce cholesterol absorption in the gut, thereby lowering blood lipids. Oatmeal also helps stabilize blood sugar and prolongs the feeling of fullness. Those with heart conditions can eat oatmeal cooked with water or unsweetened nut milk, adding chia seeds or fresh fruit for increased nutritional value.

Whole-wheat bread contains a lot of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which regulate blood pressure, support vasodilation, and protect blood vessel walls. Compared to white bread, whole-wheat bread has a lower glycemic index, reducing the metabolic burden on the heart and limiting the accumulation of fat in the arteries.

Unsweetened nut milk, such as almond, soy, or walnut milk, contains unsaturated fats beneficial for cardiovascular health. Nut milk is rich in vitamin E, phytosterols, and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function. Individuals should opt for unsweetened varieties without artificial flavorings to avoid increasing blood sugar and lipids.

A proper breakfast helps stabilize blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications throughout the day. Photo: Trong Nghia

A proper breakfast helps stabilize blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications throughout the day. Photo: Trong Nghia

Boiled eggs provide high-quality protein, maintain muscle mass, and do not cause insulin spikes in the morning. Eggs also contain lecithin, a substance that can support fat metabolism. However, individuals with heart disease should eat boiled eggs, not fried or mixed with butter, and limit consumption to 3-4 eggs per week if they have lipid disorders.

Fresh fruit like apples, bananas, kiwis, and blueberries provide fiber, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols, which help stabilize blood pressure, reduce oxidative stress, and improve overall cardiovascular health. It is recommended to eat whole fruits rather than drinking juice to take advantage of the natural fiber content and avoid blood sugar spikes.

Individuals with heart conditions should avoid breakfasts high in fat, such as fried sticky rice, burgers, instant noodles, or sugary sweets. Instead, prioritize light, low-sodium meals rich in fiber and healthy fats to maintain stable blood pressure, control cholesterol, and reduce the burden on the heart.

Dr. Duy Tung advises heart patients to have regular check-ups, take medication as prescribed, control their weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and avoid alcohol and tobacco. Supplementing with natural extracts like GDL-5 (extracted from South American sugarcane) contributes to lowering blood lipids and total cholesterol, limiting the risk of atherosclerosis.

Trong Nghia