Yogurt, cheese and chocolate to protect the heart

Yogurt, cheese and chocolate to protect the heart

Research often suggests that a vegan diet can improve your heart health, however, you don't need to become a completely vegan to achieve this. Scientific evidence has revealed that foods like cheese, chocolate, and yogurt also have benefits.

A study recently published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Research reported that eating some full-fat dairy products in moderation can help protect your heart, according to the "Insider" website.

Researchers from the University of Naples reviewed nearly 100 studies on the relationship between heart disease risk and dietary habits. They focused on specific food groups, such as red meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, nuts and grains.

In addition, their findings showed that regular consumption of yogurt and small amounts of cheese can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The researchers attributed this to the fermentation process involved in these foods. Small amounts of chocolate have also been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dairy products are good for the heart

In the same context, researchers found that eating up to 200 grams of dairy products per day does not lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

Contrary to old theories that high levels of saturated fat poses a risk to heart health, the current study found that certain types of dairy products appear to have a protective effect.

For example, the study showed that people who ate at least 200 grams of a meal, or three-quarters of a cup of yogurt, daily were less likely to develop heart disease than people who didn't eat yogurt.

Also, I found that eating cheese is useful in moderate amounts, up to 50 grams (about two and a half slices or a third of a cup of grated cheese) per day.

A little chocolate protects your heart

The study also found a small but significant association between regular chocolate consumption and a slightly lower risk of heart disease.

Also, I found that eating between 20 and 45 grams of chocolate per day, which is between half and 1.5 full ounces of a chocolate bar, had the greatest benefits.

The researchers recommend only 10 grams of chocolate per day, however, to avoid consuming too much added sugar or extra calories that could offset the heart-health benefits.

Evidence suggests that certain compounds in cocoa called "flavanols" are linked to the heart-healthy benefits of chocolate. However, the current study did not indicate the type of chocolate, but previous studies revealed that dark chocolate may be the best option for heart health, because it is rich in flavanols, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.

By contrast, milk chocolate is higher in added sugar and processed fats, many of which can be harmful to your health.

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