The 10 best foods for the heart, health and weight loss

Here is a list of the top 10 foods that are beneficial for your heart, health, and will definitely help you lose weight. Implement these foods in your diet and eliminate junk and fast foods and watch a tremendous change in your body.

Oatmeal. Opt for thick or steel cut oats instead of instant varieties, they contain more fiber. Oatmeal is great for breakfast over sugary cereals; it is full of omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid and potassium. This fiber-rich superfood can also lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and help keep your arteries clear.

Salmon. Super rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon can effectively lower blood pressure and keep clotting at bay. Try to serve two per week, which can reduce your risk of dying from a heart attack by up to a third. Salmon also contains the carotenoid astaxanthin, which is a very powerful antioxidant. Mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines will also give your heart the same boost.

avacado. Add some avocado to your diet and increase the amount of heart-healthy fats in your diet. Packed with monounsaturated fat, avocados can help lower LDL levels while increasing the amount of HDL cholesterol in your body. They also allow the absorption of other carotenoids, especially beta-carotene and lycopene, which are essential for heart health.

Spinach. This will help your health thanks to its reserves of lutein, folic acid, potassium and fiber. However, increasing any vegetables is sure to give your heart a boost.

flax seed Packed with fiber, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, a little flaxseed can go a long way for your heart. Top a bowl of oatmeal or whole grain cereal with a pinch of ground flaxseed for the ultimate heart-healthy breakfast. Other ways to eat it are to mix it into smoothies and toss it into salads.

berries. Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, etc., are full of anti-inflammatories, which reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Soy. Soy can lower cholesterol and is a great source of lean protein in a heart-healthy diet. Look for natural sources of soy, such as edamame, tempeh, or organic silken tofu. Soy milk is a great addition to a bowl of oatmeal or whole grain cereal. Look at the amount of salt in your car. Some processed varieties like soy dogs may contain added sodium, which increases blood pressure.

Olive oil. Full of monounsaturated fats, olive oil lowers bad LDL cholesterol and reduces the risk of developing heart disease. Look for cold-pressed options.

Vegetables. Fill up on fiber with lentils, chickpeas, and black and kidney beans. They are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and soluble fiber.

Walnuts. Almonds, walnuts, and macadamia nuts are full of omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.