As a registered dietitian specializing in cardiometabolic health, my focus is on foods that do double duty: protecting the heart while simultaneously stabilizing insulin and blood sugar levels.
Beans are an exceptional source of soluble fiber. When consumed, this fiber forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract that binds to bile acids (which contain cholesterol) and carries them out of the body as waste.
For people managing diabetes, heart health, or hypertension, cravings can be particularly challenging. Foods high in sugar can spike blood sugar levels, salty snacks can raise blood pressure, and high-carb foods can lead to weight gain, which strains the heart.
Your heart is the engine that keeps your body running, delivering oxygen and vital nutrients to every cell—from head to toe. It powers your movement, fuels your mind, aids digestion, and supports overall function. But when your heart health declines, it’s not just your heart that suffers—every part of your body feels the impact.
There are steps you can take today to significantly improve your heart health and potentially reduce your risk. It’s all about creating a heart-healthy lifestyle, and it’s never too late to start.